BJJ Rear Naked Choke: Mechanics and Back Position
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 2 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Master the BJJ rear naked choke: mechanics, seatbelt grip, hook control and finish details.
Contents
The King of Back Attacks
The rear naked choke (RNC) is the most reliable finishing submission from back control. It works in both gi and no-gi, on all body types, and is virtually impossible to escape when applied correctly with proper back control.
Back Control Setup
- Seatbelt: Over-under grip around the torso — top arm over the shoulder, bottom arm under the armpit
- Hooks: Both feet inserted between their thighs and hips, pushing their hips forward
- Angle: Stay slightly to the side, not directly behind — this prevents them rolling toward you
RNC Finishing Mechanics
- Pull their head back with your rear hand (pull the chin back)
- Slide the choke arm under the chin when they expose it
- Lock figure-4: choke-arm hand grabs the other arm's bicep, that arm's hand goes behind their head
- Squeeze the elbows together and apply hip pressure
⚠️ Important: The RNC is a blood choke, not an air choke. It works by compressing the carotid arteries. The figure-4 placement is critical — arm in front (blood choke) vs arm over (ineffective).
💡 Pro Tip: If they tuck their chin, don't force the arm in. Use your bottom arm in the seatbelt to push their elbow up, which forces them to raise their chin to defend — then slide the choke arm in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rear naked choke?
The rear naked choke (RNC, mata leão in Portuguese) is a blood choke applied from back control. You wrap one arm around the neck, the other arm supports behind their head in a figure-4, and you squeeze to compress the carotid arteries.
How do I set up the rear naked choke?
From back control with seatbelt, move your top arm to attack the neck. Slide it under the chin first, then bring the figure-4 behind the head. Squeeze your elbow toward your knee while pushing their head forward with your rear arm.
Why can't I finish the rear naked choke?
Common issues: (1) chin tucking — pull their head back with the rear arm before the choke arm goes in, (2) no figure-4 — hand behind head is essential for leverage, (3) squeezing with arms only — use your whole body, roll slightly to add pressure.