Baratoplata

What is the Baratoplata? (Definition & Origin)

The Baratoplata is an innovative shoulder lock in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, created by Rafael "Barata" Freitas. The submission derives its name from Freitas' nickname "Barata," meaning "cockroach" in Portuguese. Initially developed during his purple belt years as a biceps slicer, Freitas later adapted the technique into a shoulder lock to comply with competition regulations. Since its inception, elite competitors such as Caio Terra and João Miyao have popularized the Baratoplata, notably with Terra employing it to secure victory at the 2015 IBJJF No-Gi World Championship.

Biomechanics of the Baratoplata Shoulder Lock

The Baratoplata specifically targets the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint, placing significant strain on the rotator cuff tendons and shoulder capsule. The attacker immobilizes the opponent's elbow between their thighs, isolating the shoulder joint. By securing the elbow and applying outward and upward pressure on the opponent's wrist, the attacker generates intense internal rotational torque on the shoulder. Unlike traditional shoulder locks such as the Kimura, the Baratoplata emphasizes outward rotational force rather than twisting the arm behind the back.

Step-by-Step Guide: Baratoplata from Closed Guard

1. Secure a reverse Kimura grip on your opponent's wrist, pinning their hand toward their stomach.
2. Tightly trap your opponent's elbow between your thighs to isolate their shoulder.
3. Thread your arm under and around your opponent's elbow, gripping your own thigh or hip to establish a secure figure-four configuration.
4. Angle your hips outward, similar to setting up a Triangle Choke, to maximize leverage and alignment.
5. Finish the submission by driving your forearm forward against the trapped arm while simultaneously pushing your opponent's wrist outward and upward, creating intense rotational torque on their shoulder joint.

Applying the Baratoplata from Top Positions (Mount & Side Control)

From Mount

When your opponent defends an armbar attempt, transition smoothly into the Baratoplata by threading your arm through their elbow and securing the figure-four grip. Maintain tight control and apply rotational pressure to finish.

From Side Control

Capitalize on your opponent's extended arm or framing attempts by securing the figure-four grip and stepping over their head to isolate the shoulder. Maintain tight elbow isolation and controlled rotation to effectively complete the submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Executing the Baratoplata

• Insufficient Elbow Control: Failing to tightly trap your opponent's elbow allows them to reposition their arm and escape.
• Poor Hip Angle: Remaining flat on your back or neglecting to angle your hips outward reduces leverage, making the lock easier to resist.
• Loose Leg Control: Relaxed legs fail to immobilize your opponent's posture, enabling them to posture up and escape the submission.

Effective Defenses and Escapes from the Baratoplata

• Early Posture Recovery: Immediately regain posture and elevate your position when sensing the Baratoplata setup to prevent elbow isolation.
• Straightening the Trapped Arm: Extend your trapped arm and create space by pushing against your opponent's hips or legs, reducing their leverage.
• Recognizing Transitional Setups: Identify and block critical steps of the Baratoplata setup, such as preventing your opponent from threading their arm through your elbow or stepping their leg over your head.

Strategic Applications and Tactical Use Cases of the Baratoplata

The Baratoplata serves as an effective surprise submission during scrambles and transitions, particularly when opponents focus on defending traditional submissions like the Triangle Choke or Omoplata. Its versatility allows practitioners to apply it effectively in both gi and no-gi contexts, from guard, mount, and side control positions. Notably, João Miyao has demonstrated its effectiveness as a counter to double-under guard pass attempts.

Comparing Baratoplata to Other Shoulder Locks (Omoplata, Kimura, Tarikoplata)

• Omoplata: While the Omoplata primarily relies on leg-based control, the Baratoplata employs a hybrid arm-leg control system.
• Kimura: Unlike the Kimura, which twists the arm behind the back, the Baratoplata utilizes leg assistance and outward wrist pressure to achieve submission.
• Tarikoplata: The Baratoplata applies outward rotational pressure on the opponent's arm, whereas the Tarikoplata pulls the arm inward toward the attacker, creating a different directional force.

Notable Matches Featuring the Baratoplata

• Caio Terra famously secured victory using the Baratoplata in the final of the 2015 IBJJF No-Gi World Championship.
• João Miyao effectively utilized the Baratoplata as a counter to double-under guard pass attempts, showcasing its practical application at the highest levels of competition.