BJJ Wiki β€Ί πŸ€— BJJ Rear Naked Choke Guide

πŸ€— BJJ Rear Naked Choke Guide

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Seatbelt grip, hook control, finishing mechanics and common mistakes of the rear naked choke.

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Contents

    The King of Back Attacks

    The rear naked choke (RNC) is the most reliable finishing submission from back control. It works in both gi and no-gi, on all body types, and is virtually impossible to escape when applied correctly with proper back control.

    Back Control Setup

    RNC Finishing Mechanics

    1. Pull their head back with your rear hand (pull the chin back)
    2. Slide the choke arm under the chin when they expose it
    3. Lock figure-4: choke-arm hand grabs the other arm's bicep, that arm's hand goes behind their head
    4. Squeeze the elbows together and apply hip pressure
    ⚠️ Important: The RNC is a blood choke, not an air choke. It works by compressing the carotid arteries. The figure-4 placement is critical β€” arm in front (blood choke) vs arm over (ineffective).
    πŸ’‘ Pro Tip: If they tuck their chin, don't force the arm in. Use your bottom arm in the seatbelt to push their elbow up, which forces them to raise their chin to defend β€” then slide the choke arm in.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the rear naked choke?
    The rear naked choke (RNC, mata leΓ£o in Portuguese) is a blood choke applied from back control. You wrap one arm around the neck, the other arm supports behind their head in a figure-4, and you squeeze to compress the carotid arteries.
    How do I set up the rear naked choke?
    From back control with seatbelt, move your top arm to attack the neck. Slide it under the chin first, then bring the figure-4 behind the head. Squeeze your elbow toward your knee while pushing their head forward with your rear arm.
    Why can't I finish the rear naked choke?
    Common issues: (1) chin tucking β€” pull their head back with the rear arm before the choke arm goes in, (2) no figure-4 β€” hand behind head is essential for leverage, (3) squeezing with arms only β€” use your whole body, roll slightly to add pressure.

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    Common Mistakes in Rear Naked Choke

    Rushing the Setup

    Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.

    Using Strength Over Technique

    Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.

    Skipping Drilling

    Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.

    Ignoring Defensive Reactions

    Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.

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    More Questions

    How do I get my arm under their chin for the Rear Naked Choke?

    The key is to get your bicep to the carotid artery and your forearm behind their head. This often involves adjusting your grip and using your shoulder to create space, then sliding your arm through.

    What's the difference between a Rear Naked Choke and a bulldog choke?

    The Rear Naked Choke (RNC) uses your arm to constrict the carotid arteries, while a bulldog choke typically involves a grip around the neck and chest, often with your forearm across the throat.

    My opponent keeps turning into me when I try the RNC, what can I do?

    If they turn in, you can use it to your advantage by switching to a body triangle or securing a better position on their back. Focus on maintaining control of their hips and preventing them from facing you.

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