BJJ Anaconda Choke

Contents

What Is the Anaconda Choke?

The anaconda choke is a front headlock submission where the attacker's arm goes under the opponent's armpit and around the neck, creating a blood choke. Unlike the guillotine (arm over), the anaconda arm goes under — making it ideal from turtle and sprawl positions.

Anaconda vs D'Arce

Feature	Anaconda	D'Arce
Arm position	Under the armpit	Under the neck (different entry)
Best from	Turtle, sprawl facing down	Side control, guard pass
Choke type	Blood choke	Blood choke
Roll direction	Away from opponent	Into opponent

Anaconda Execution

Establish front headlock from sprawl or turtle — one arm under their armpit, one arm around their neck
Grip: figure-four (Gable grip) with your arms, or clasp hands together
Roll in the direction that brings their body toward you (away from the trapped side)
As you roll, squeeze the neck with the bony part of your forearm

💡 Key detail: The roll is what finishes the anaconda — the squeeze alone rarely works. The barrel roll brings their body over and automatically tightens the choke as you complete the roll.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between anaconda and D'Arce choke?

Both are arm-in chokes but the arm positioning differs. Anaconda goes under the armpit with the arm, D'Arce threads under the neck from the opposite side. Anaconda is better from turtle; D'Arce is better from side control/guard pass.

Does the anaconda require a roll?

The roll version is most reliable as it tightens the choke through mechanics rather than pure strength. A static squeeze is possible against weaker opponents, but the roll is the standard finishing technique.

Can anaconda be finished from guard?

Less commonly — the anaconda is primarily a top-position submission from sprawl and turtle. Arm-in guillotines from guard are more typical than anacondas.