Backdoor Escape

The Backdoor Escape is a defensive technique that allows a practitioner to escape from certain dominant positions, particularly Back Control or Technical Mount. It involves slipping underneath the opponent’s control by using Hip Movement, Frames, and leveraging gaps in their positioning to regain a neutral or advantageous position. This escape is particularly effective when the opponent’s weight is slightly off-center or their Hooks are loose.

Key Characteristics

Escape Path

The practitioner slips their hips and shoulders downward through the opponent’s control, exiting beneath them.

Leverage

Uses Hip Movement and Frames to create space and destabilize the opponent’s Grips Overview or hooks.

Goal

To escape from the bottom position and recover Guard, Half Guard, or a neutral stance.

Applications of the Backdoor Escape

From Back Control

When the opponent’s Hooks are loose or their weight is slightly forward, you can slide your hips downward and escape through the gap beneath them.
As you exit, turn toward their legs to recover Guard or come up into Side Control Top.

From Technical Mount

If the opponent’s knee and foot positioning create space, use Hip Movement to slide underneath their control.
Frame against their torso to push them upward while slipping your hips free.

From Turtle Guard

If the opponent attempts to take your back, you can turn and drop your hips to slide underneath their Hooks.
Recover Guard or come to a neutral standing position.

Steps to Execute the Backdoor Escape

Create Space

Use Frames against their chest, hips, or legs to push them away slightly, creating a gap for your hips and shoulders.

Slip the Hips

Shrimp or scoot your hips downward, aiming to clear their Hooks or bypass their control.

Tuck the Head

Drop your chin toward your chest and tuck your head beneath their body or arms, sliding under their control.

Recover Position

As you escape, turn toward their legs to recover Guard, Half Guard, or Side Control Top.
Be prepared to counter their attempts to follow or re-establish control.

Common Mistakes in the Backdoor Escape

Rushing the Escape

Moving too quickly without properly breaking their control can result in exposing your neck or arms to submissions.

Neglecting Frames

Failing to create sufficient space increases the risk of getting re-trapped or attacked.

Head Exposure

Not tucking your head can leave it vulnerable to chokes or face pressure as you escape.

Tips for Success

Focus on Timing

Execute the escape when the opponent’s Hooks are loose, or their weight is shifted forward or off-center.

Combine with Other Escapes

If the backdoor escape is blocked, transition to other escapes like Elbow Escape or Bridge and Roll Escape.

Control Their Hips

Use your hands or legs to block their hips as you slide out, preventing them from re-establishing control.

When to Use the Backdoor Escape

When trapped in Back Control but notice the opponent’s control is not tight or their Hooks are loose.
When in Technical Mount and the opponent’s knee or foot positioning creates a path for escape.
As a counter to Turtle Guard attacks when the opponent is attempting to secure Hooks or control your upper body.

Tip

The Backdoor Escape is a dynamic and effective option for escaping dominant positions like Back Control or Technical Mount. Focus on precise Hip Movement and Frames to create space, maintain calm Breathing, and recover control or a neutral position.