Anaconda Choke

What is the Anaconda Choke? (Definition & Historical Origin)

The Anaconda Choke is a highly effective arm-triangle submission commonly utilized in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts. It involves encircling the opponent's neck and one arm with a figure-four grip, applying precise pressure to compress the carotid arteries and induce unconsciousness. Named after the constrictive nature of the anaconda snake, this choke was developed by Brazilian grappler Milton Vieira in the late 1990s. The technique gained widespread recognition after Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira successfully executed it in PRIDE FC, notably against Hirotaka Yokoi in 2004.

Detailed Mechanics of the Anaconda Choke

The Anaconda Choke primarily targets the carotid arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain. To execute the choke, the attacker threads one arm beneath the opponent's neck and across to the far armpit, securing a tight figure-four grip outside the opponent's trapped arm. The opponent's own shoulder serves as a fulcrum, compressing one carotid artery, while the attacker's bicep compresses the other. Proper execution emphasizes minimal tracheal pressure, relying instead on precise alignment, tightness of the grip, and correct body positioning.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying the Anaconda Choke from Front Headlock

1. Establish Front Headlock: Begin with your opponent in a turtle position or bent forward, securing a strong front headlock.
2. Thread the Arm: Slide your choking arm deeply under your opponent's neck, reaching across to their far armpit.
3. Secure the Grip: Initially use a palm-to-palm (gable) grip to eliminate slack, then transition to a deep figure-four grip by grabbing your opposite bicep.
4. Execute the Gator Roll: Roll toward the side of your opponent's trapped arm, pulling them onto their side or back.
5. Finalize the Choke: Expand your chest, sprawl your hips, and optionally hook your opponent's leg to prevent escapes and maximize choke pressure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Executing the Anaconda Choke

• Shallow Grip: Failing to thread the choking arm deeply enough results in insufficient pressure.
• Over-Reliance on Arm Strength: Neglecting proper body positioning and relying solely on arm squeeze can lead to fatigue and ineffective choking.
• Incorrect Rolling Direction: Rolling toward the wrong side or not fully completing the roll can relieve pressure and allow escapes.
• Exposed Elbow: Overextending the choking arm across your opponent's chest can provide leverage for their defense.
• Insufficient Shoulder Pressure: Focusing only on your opponent's shoulder without tightening your arm angle reduces choke effectiveness.

Effective Defenses and Escapes from the Anaconda Choke

Early Prevention

• Maintain strong posture, aggressively hand-fight, and keep elbows tight to prevent the initial grip.

Blocking the Roll

• Post with your free arm or leg to disrupt your opponent's gator roll, or roll in the opposite direction to create a scramble.

Late-Stage Escape

• Hook your trapped arm inside your own thigh to create space and prevent full compression.

'Answering the Phone' Defense

• Frame your free hand beside your ear to alleviate pressure and buy time for escape.

Flattening Out

• Bridge and flatten your back to the mat, altering the choke angle and creating opportunities to escape.

Strategic Applications and Optimal Timing for the Anaconda Choke

The Anaconda Choke is most effective when your opponent's head is positioned lower than their hips, typically after a sprawl or snap-down. Ideal scenarios include:

• Front Headlock on Turtled Opponent: After sprawling on a takedown attempt or snapping your opponent down.
• Counter-Wrestling: Transitioning directly from a defensive sprawl into the choke.
• Snap-Down Setups: Pulling your opponent into a front headlock from standing and immediately threading the choke.
• Transitions from Other Chokes: Switching from guillotine or D'arce choke attempts based on your opponent's reactions.

In gi grappling, friction from the gi can aid in securing the choke, though practitioners often opt for lapel-based alternatives like the Brabo choke.

Anaconda Choke vs. Similar Techniques: Understanding Key Differences

D'arce Choke

• The D'arce choke threads the choking arm under your opponent's armpit first, then across the neck, locking behind the neck. In contrast, the Anaconda threads under the neck first, locking outside the armpit.

Guillotine Choke

• Guillotines typically involve wrapping the neck directly from the front, often without trapping an arm. The Anaconda always traps one arm alongside the neck.

The Anaconda Choke requires specific positional setups and finishing mechanics, notably the gator roll, distinguishing it clearly from these related submissions.

Notable Matches and Practitioners Known for the Anaconda Choke

• Milton Vieira: Credited with developing the choke in the late 1990s.
• Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira: Popularized the choke in PRIDE FC, notably against Hirotaka Yokoi in 2004.
• Vicente Luque: Holds the fastest Anaconda Choke finish in UFC history (52 seconds, 2024).
• Renato "Babalu" Sobral: Secured a notable Anaconda finish at UFC 74.
• Phil Davis: Achieved a significant Anaconda victory at UFC 112.
• Charles Oliveira: Notably submitted Hatsu Hioki via Anaconda Choke in the UFC.

The Anaconda Choke remains a staple submission in elite grappling competitions such as ADCC and IBJJF No-Gi tournaments, frequently utilized by top-level competitors.