Rear Naked Choke Defense
☰Contents
Rear naked choke defense for BJJ — chin tuck, frame creation, elbow pop, back escape sequences, and preventing the finish.
The rear naked choke (RNC) is one of the highest-percentage submissions in BJJ and MMA. Defending it requires immediate awareness and a systematic response.
Phase 1 — Prevention
Chin Tuck
As soon as you feel an arm coming under your chin, tuck your chin to your chest. This is your first line of defense — an early chin tuck can block the choke entirely.
Two-on-One Grip
Grab their choking arm with both hands. Use a thumb-in grip to prevent the arm from settling under your chin. Actively pull downward.
Phase 2 — Breaking the Grip
Elbow Pop
Drop your weight and rotate your elbow into their forearm, creating a wedge. This breaks the grip and buys time to escape.
Shoulder Roll
Roll your shoulder toward their choking arm, reducing the leverage. Combine with posture breaking to disrupt their base.
Phase 3 — Back Escape
Seat Belt Strip
Address the seat belt grip before focusing on the choke. Strip the top arm first, then work to slide out the back door.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Letting the arm settle under the chin before reacting
- Fighting with just one hand
- Forgetting to address the hooks
- Stacking straight back into the choke