Cross collar choke from closed guard
A collar strangle that closes two forearms across the neck while closed guard holds the posture down.
How to read it
What this entry helps you see
The cross collar choke closes space between two forearms across the neck while closed guard keeps the top player from posturing away. It is a controlled submission. Set both grips before applying any pressure, and give your partner room to tap.
Key steps
- Establish closed guard and break the top player posture with your legs and grips.
- Feed your first hand deep into the near collar, thumb inside, until you reach the collar bone.
- Thread your second hand under the first and grip the opposite collar just as deep.
- Draw both elbows down toward your ribs so the blades of the forearms meet the sides of the neck.
- Apply pressure gradually and release the moment your partner taps.
Study cues
- Take the first grip deep near the collar bone
- Thread the second hand under the first
- Draw the elbows down and together rather than muscling the hands apart
Common errors
- Reaching for the second grip before the first is deep
- Letting the top player posture up between grips
- Pulling with the hands instead of connecting the elbows