aliases:
  - whizzer
  - Whizzer
  - Overhook
  - Overhooks

Overhooks

The Whizzer, also known as the overhook, is a grappling technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and other martial arts to counter an opponent's Underhook and regain control. The Whizzer involves wrapping your arm over and around your opponent’s arm (the one with the underhook) while applying downward pressure. It is both a defensive and offensive tool that disrupts your opponent's ability to control your posture or execute takedowns and can be used to set up sweeps, submissions, or escapes.

Key Features of the Whizzer

Arm Position

Your arm loops over the opponent's arm with the underhook, pressing tightly against their shoulder or upper arm.

Grip Options

You can grip their body, belt (in gi), or your own thigh to reinforce the Whizzer.
Alternatively, leave the arm free but maintain downward pressure.

Body Angle

Your torso should turn slightly toward the side of the Whizzer, creating Angles to increase leverage and disrupt their Base.

Pressure

Apply downward and inward pressure to weaken their underhook and control their posture.

Uses in BJJ

Defensive Tool

Counters the opponent’s Underhook to prevent takedowns like the Single-Leg Takedown or Body Lock Takedown.
Disrupts their posture and limits their ability to advance position.

Offensive Opportunities

Sets up sweeps like the Butterfly Sweep or Coyote Sweep by combining the Whizzer with hip movement.
Can transition into submissions like a Triangle Choke, Kimura, or Guillotine if the opponent overcommits.

Guard Retention and Escapes

Used from bottom positions like Half Guard or Z Guard to create space and recover Guard.
Helps in Underhook Escape scenarios by neutralizing the opponent’s control.

Advantages

Neutralizes the opponent’s underhook, preventing them from advancing or controlling your posture.
Creates openings for counters, sweeps, or submissions.
Provides leverage to disrupt their Center of Gravity and Base.

Tips for Effective Use

Maintain Tightness

Keep your Whizzer snug and connected to their arm and upper body to maximize control.

Angle Creation

Turn your torso and hips slightly toward the Whizzer side to apply better leverage.

Pressure and Timing

Apply consistent downward pressure to break their posture while staying ready to transition to sweeps or submissions.

Combine with Footwork

Use proper foot positioning and movement to create Angles and off-balance your opponent.

Common Mistakes

Loose Whizzer

A weak grip or lack of pressure allows the opponent to retain their underhook and advance.

Poor Posture

Leaning too far forward or losing Base can lead to counters like takedowns or back takes.

Overcommitting

Relying solely on the Whizzer without transitioning can leave you vulnerable to being outmaneuvered.

Ignoring the Opponent’s Lower Body

Focusing only on the arm without addressing their Base can allow them to execute takedowns or regain control.

Variations and Combinations

Whizzer and Post

Use your free hand to post on the mat or their body to create additional Frames and Leverage.

Whizzer to Sweep

Combine the Whizzer with hip movement and leg positioning to execute sweeps like the Coyote Sweep or Butterfly Sweep.

Whizzer with Knee Block

Use your leg to block their knee, increasing leverage for off-balancing or takedown defense.

Whizzer to Submission

Transition to a Kimura or Guillotine by isolating their arm during the Whizzer.

The Whizzer is a versatile and essential tool for managing Connections and neutralizing an opponent’s control in both offensive and defensive scenarios. Mastering this technique enhances your ability to counter underhooks, maintain Distance Management, and create opportunities for counters and transitions.