Single Wing Choke

The Single Wing Choke is a gi-based submission that leverages the opponent's collar and their own arm to create a blood choke. It is a versatile and sneaky choke, often executed from dominant positions. The name "Single Wing" comes from the way the opponent’s arm is trapped and used to assist in the choke.

Key Concepts

Gi Dependency

  • The choke requires control of the opponent’s lapel or collar.

Arm Isolation

  • The opponent's arm is trapped against their neck, enhancing the choking pressure.

Tight Angles

  • Proper positioning and adjustments ensure the choke is secure and inescapable.

Execution Steps

Establish Dominant Position

Grip the Lapel or Collar

  • Use one hand to grab the opponent’s far-side lapel or collar. Aim for a deep grip under their neck to ensure control.

Trap the Arm

  • Isolate the opponent’s near-side arm by pinning it against their neck using your body, hand, or the gi. This arm acts as a “wing” to assist in the choke.

Apply the Choke

  • Pull the lapel or collar tight across their neck while applying downward pressure with your body. This creates a scissor-like motion that compresses the carotid arteries on both sides of their neck.

Finish the Choke

  • Adjust your grip and body positioning to tighten the choke. Your hips, chest, or shoulder may be used to enhance pressure.

Common Entries

From Side Control

  • After isolating the opponent’s arm, use their lapel to set up the Single Wing Choke. Transition to a tighter angle for the finish.

From Mount

  • If the opponent defends by framing or pushing, trap their arm and loop the lapel around their neck.

From Back Control

  • Secure the lapel while controlling their arm. Use the opponent’s own arm as leverage for the choke.

From Technical Mount

  • As the opponent turns to escape, isolate their arm and transition into the choke.

From Turtle Control

  • When the opponent turtles, use their lapel and arm to lock in the choke before they can escape.

Tips for Success

Deep Grip

  • Ensure your grip on the lapel or collar is as deep as possible for maximum control.

Control the Arm

  • Prevent the opponent’s trapped arm from slipping free by maintaining tight connections.

Leverage Your Body

  • Use your chest, hips, or shoulder to add pressure and enhance the choke.

Patience in Setup

  • Take your time to establish the correct grip and angle before applying full pressure.

Positioning

The Single Wing Choke thrives in positions where you can isolate the opponent’s arm and apply pressure through tight connections and effective use of their gi. Proper angle and control are essential for success.

Side Control

  • A prime position for the Single Wing Choke, where you can trap the opponent’s arm and use the lapel to set up the choke.

Mount

  • From mount, when the opponent frames or pushes, you can isolate their arm and use their lapel to secure the choke.

Technical Mount

  • If the opponent turns to their side to escape, their arm and neck often become vulnerable, making this an ideal setup for the choke.

Back Control

  • When you have back control, you can use the opponent’s own lapel and arm to execute the Single Wing Choke.

Turtle Control

  • From the turtle position, you can secure the opponent’s arm and neck while using their lapel to apply the choke.

North South

  • If the opponent exposes their neck or turns to escape, you can trap their arm and use their lapel to transition into the choke.

During a Guard Pass

Scramble Situations

  • In dynamic exchanges, you can isolate the arm and secure the lapel to transition into the choke.

From Half Guard Top

  • When the opponent tries to frame or defend, their arm can be trapped against their neck, setting up the choke.

Failed Submission Follow-Up

  • If a previous submission attempt (like an Armbar or Kimura) fails, you can transition to the Single Wing Choke if their arm and neck are exposed.

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