Clock Choke

What is the Clock Choke? (Definition & Historical Significance)

The Clock Choke is a gi-based strangulation technique typically executed when an opponent adopts the turtle position (hands and knees). It involves a single-handed lapel grip, using the opponent's own collar to restrict blood flow to the brain. The attacker positions themselves above and slightly to the side, leveraging body weight and circular movement to tighten the choke. Originating from Judo, where it is classified as "okuri-eri-jime" (sliding collar choke), the Clock Choke gained widespread recognition in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after Wallid Ismail famously choked UFC champion Royce Gracie unconscious in a 1998 grappling match. This iconic moment solidified the Clock Choke's reputation as a highly effective submission in gi competition.

Detailed Mechanics of the Clock Choke

Establishing Control and Grip

To effectively apply the Clock Choke, the attacker first secures dominant control over the opponent in turtle position. Typically, the attacker drives their rear knee into the gap between the opponent's near elbow and knee, preventing guard recovery. Maintaining heavy chest pressure on the opponent's back, the attacker opens the near-side lapel and feeds it deeply to their far hand, establishing a thumb-in grip across the opponent's throat. The opposite hand assists by pulling slack from the lapel toward the opponent's hip, ensuring a snug and secure grip.

Breaking the Opponent's Base

Once the collar grip is secured, the attacker destabilizes the opponent by controlling their far arm or wrist, tucking it inward beneath their body. This removes the opponent's ability to post and resist, significantly reducing their defensive options.

Finishing the Choke

To complete the choke, the attacker sprawls their legs backward and slides forward slightly, placing direct chest pressure onto the opponent's neck and head. Posting the crown of their head on the mat near the opponent, the attacker initiates the signature "clock" motion, walking their lower body in a wide circular arc around the opponent's head. This circular movement rapidly tightens the collar around the neck, cutting off blood flow and forcing a submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying the Clock Choke

Several technical errors can compromise the effectiveness of the Clock Choke:

• Shallow Collar Grip: A shallow grip leaves excessive slack, preventing proper tightening. Always ensure the choking hand is threaded deeply into the collar.
• Allowing Space or Losing Pressure: Constant chest-to-back pressure is crucial. Any gap allows the opponent to escape or recover guard.
• Overcommitting the Choking Arm: Inserting the choking arm too deeply can lead to being rolled or reversed. Insert the arm only as far as necessary to secure the grip.
• Neglecting Far Arm Control: Failing to control the opponent's far arm or wrist allows them to post and resist effectively. Always neutralize this post to destabilize the opponent.
• Poor Finishing Position: Not sliding forward enough or failing to sprawl properly reduces choke pressure. Ensure your chest presses directly onto the opponent's neck and your head posts firmly on the mat.

Effective Defenses and Escapes from the Clock Choke

Defending the Clock Choke requires early recognition and decisive action:

• Early Chin Tuck and Hand-Fighting: Immediately tuck your chin and use your hands to block the opponent's collar grip.
• Turning Into the Attacker: Rotate toward the attacker, performing a sit-out or guard recovery to neutralize the choke angle.
• Dropping Hip and Rolling to Bottom Side Control: Dropping your hip and rolling inward can create a scramble, escaping the choke at the cost of position.
• Hand-Fighting to Pry Choking Grip: If caught, use both hands to grip and pry the choking hand away from your collar.
• Hooking Attacker's Leg: Entangle the attacker's leg to prevent their circular "clock" movement, buying time to escape.

Strategic Usage and Optimal Timing for the Clock Choke

The Clock Choke is strategically valuable in gi competition, particularly against opponents who defensively turtle:

• Punishing Turtle to Avoid Guard Pass Points: Opponents often turtle to prevent guard pass points, creating ideal opportunities for the Clock Choke.
• Capitalizing on Failed Takedowns or Scrambles: Quickly transitioning to the Clock Choke after scrambles or failed takedowns can catch opponents off guard.
• Gi-Specific Submission Advantage: Leveraging the gi collar makes the Clock Choke highly effective in gi tournaments, where opponents may underestimate collar threats.
• Integration into Attack Sequences: The Clock Choke can be combined seamlessly with back takes or other submissions, forcing opponents into difficult defensive decisions.

Clock Choke vs Sliding Collar Choke: Key Differences

While both techniques utilize the gi collar, the Clock Choke and Sliding Collar Choke differ significantly:

• Positional Differences: The Clock Choke is applied from turtle position without hooks, whereas the Sliding Collar Choke is executed from back mount with hooks.
• Grip Configuration: The Clock Choke typically uses a single-handed collar grip, while the Sliding Collar Choke employs a two-handed cross-collar grip.
• Body Movement vs Arm Mechanics: The Clock Choke relies on body movement, gravity, and circular walking to tighten the choke. The Sliding Collar Choke primarily uses arm pulling and static squeezing.
• Risk and Control Considerations: The Clock Choke can be riskier if unsuccessful, potentially losing position. The Sliding Collar Choke offers greater positional security from back control.

Notable Matches Featuring the Clock Choke

The Clock Choke has featured prominently in high-level competition:

• Wallid Ismail vs Royce Gracie (1998): Wallid Ismail famously choked Royce Gracie unconscious, highlighting the choke's effectiveness.
• JT Torres at American Nationals: JT Torres successfully utilized the Clock Choke to secure victory at the American Nationals.
• Carlson Gracie Team's Historical Usage: Members of the Carlson Gracie Team have been renowned for aggressive Clock Choke applications in competition, further cementing its effectiveness in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history.