The Ezekiel choke (also called Kata Gatame) is a gi choke that uses both of your sleeves to apply pressure to opponent's neck. It's highly effective from mount position and can also be applied from back control or side control.
From top mount, control opponent's collar on both sides with both of your hands. Feed your sleeves underneath their chin, creating a cross-pressure choke. The key is to drive your elbows down for maximum pressure.
Keep your arms tight and close to their neck. Drive your elbows inward and downward simultaneously. This creates a vise-like pressure that's difficult to escape.
The Ezekiel can also be applied from back control, though it's less common. You need both collar grips to execute effectively.
If opponent escapes your collar grip on one side, transition to a seatbelt control and look for back take opportunities.
When opponent stacks you during mount, maintain your Ezekiel grip and transition to a different position or submission.
Most practitioners develop functional competency with Ezekiel Choke Guide within 3β6 months of consistent drilling. Mastery β the ability to execute reliably in live rolling against resisting opponents β typically takes 1β2 years.
Yes. Ezekiel Choke Guide is part of the core BJJ curriculum and taught at all belt levels. Beginners should focus on the fundamental mechanics and concepts before refining advanced entries.
3β5 times per week is ideal for rapid skill acquisition. Even 10 focused repetitions per session compounds over time β consistency matters more than volume.
BJJ is a linked system. Ezekiel Choke Guide flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.