The rear naked choke submission is one of the most common and effective submission techniques in all of mixed martial arts.
It is a technique which can be used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions, MMA fights and also used by everyday people, as a form of self-defense.
We’ll walk you through how to perform a rear-naked choke as well as explain why it’s so effective.
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What is a rear naked choke?
A rear naked choke is a BJJ submission technique. It cuts off the flow of oxygen to the brain and acts as a blood choke.
Unlike other submission techniques, such as Ezekiel chokes, This particular BJJ submission is very effective because it is relatively simple to master, it can be applied quickly and it does not require extraordinary strength to execute.
How to perform a rear naked choke submission
A rear-naked choke can be performed from multiple positions. However, it is most commonly performed from behind an opponent’s back, usually from the floor.
To pull off the technique, you need to wrap one arm around your opponent’s neck while the other arm goes under the armpit of your opponent and then you need to attempt to lock your hands together.
Once you’ve achieved this position, you then need to release your hand grip and slide your wrapped arm under the chin of your opponent. Wrap your arm around enough so that your elbow is in line with the front of their chin.
With your other arm, remove it from under the armpit of your opponent and slide that arm behind your opponent’s head.
As your arm goes further behind your opponent’s head, your other hand should connect with that arm’s bicep.
Now you are in position, you should squeeze your elbows together to cut off the oxygen to your opponent’s head.
Once you apply a squeeze with your arms, your opponent will usually be forced to submit, or they will go unconscious.
Why you should use the rear naked choke submission
The rear naked choke is an extremely effective submission move which is widely used in MMA fights.
It is usually performed by BJJ black belts such as Charles Oliveira & Demian Maia, however, other fighters have also been known to use it in competition, as it is fairly simple to pull off (relative to other BJJ submission techniques).
It is also a great option for self-defense, because it has the ability to completely immobilize your attacker and render them unconscious.
If you are looking for a move that will give you an advantage in a fight or self-defense situation, the rear naked choke is definitely worth learning.
Why does it force your opponent to submit?
The reason it forces your opponent to submit is that it cuts off the flow of blood to your brain. On average, a person will pass out in 9 seconds due to the choke.
Is it dangerous to use?
Like any combat sports submission, it can cause serious injury if not used correctly. It is therefore advised that you practice the technique with a qualified instructor.
If a rear naked choke is held on to for too long, then it can cause long-term side effects, as the brain suffers from a lack of blood. It can even cause death, if the choke is not released for a long period of time.
This is why, like we mentioned, it is very important that you practise this submission technique in a controlled environment where you have expert guidance.
Is it a popular technique to use?
The rear naked choke is one of the most popular moves in BJJ & MMA.
As we’ve explained above, it’s popularity is derived from a number of reasons:
- It is extremely effective at subduing opponents
- It can be easily taught
- It does not require a great deal of strength to pull off
- It can be executed from a variety of positions
