What is the Cross Collar Choke from Mount? (Definition & Historical Context)

The Cross Collar Choke from Mount is a gi-based submission technique widely utilized in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Kodokan Judo, where it is known as Juji-jime. This choke involves crossing the arms and gripping the opponent's collars to apply targeted pressure on the carotid arteries, resulting in a blood choke rather than an airway choke. Historically, its origins trace back to early Judo (Shime-waza) and traditional Japanese Jujutsu. The technique was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by Mitsuyo Maeda and notably popularized by Helio Gracie, who famously executed it in his 1951 match against Yukio Kato. More recently, Roger Gracie became renowned for his mastery of this choke, securing 13 black-belt victories with it throughout his competitive career.

Detailed Mechanics of the Cross Collar Choke from Mount

Establishing the Initial Grip

Executing the Cross Collar Choke from Mount begins by establishing a deep first-hand grip. Typically, the first hand enters palm-up (four fingers inside, thumb outside), sliding deeply under the opponent's neck until the thumb reaches behind their neck. The wrist's ulnar bone (forearm blade) should press firmly into one carotid artery. Achieving a deep initial grip is essential for choke effectiveness.

Variations of the Second Grip

The second-hand grip can vary, each offering distinct advantages:

• Palm-Up/Palm-Up (Double Underhand, "Nami Juji Jime"): The second hand threads under the first arm, gripping the far collar palm-up.
• Palm-Down/Palm-Up (Over-Under, "Gyaku Juji Jime"): The second hand goes over the first arm, thumb inside the near collar (palm-down).
• Palm-Down/Palm-Down (Double Overhand): Both thumbs inside collars; less common from mount due to limited leverage.

Collar Placement and Body Positioning

Proper collar placement involves crossing the lapels high on the opponent's neck, encircling it like a noose. Forearm blades must align precisely on both carotid arteries. Thumb positioning depends on grip style—outside collar for palm-up grips, inside collar for palm-down grips.

Body positioning is critical: maintain a low, tight mount, ideally a high mount (knees under opponent's armpits) or knees wide with toes hooked for stability. Distribute weight by relaxing hips and allowing body weight to sag forward onto the opponent. Post the head diagonally across the mat opposite the first grip to counter bridging escapes.

Finishing the Choke

To finish, flare wrists outward slightly, pressing forearm blades into the neck. Pull elbows down and tight to ribs, engaging back muscles. Rather than relying solely on arm strength, practitioners should drop their chest and body weight forward into the choke, driving forearm blades inward. Posting the first-grip elbow on the opponent's sternum or upper chest can further enhance pressure and stability.

Common Mistakes and Execution Pitfalls

Several common mistakes can compromise the Cross Collar Choke from Mount:

• Shallow Initial Grip: Insufficient depth allows the opponent breathing room. Correct by sliding the first hand deeper until the thumb reaches behind the neck.
• Flaring Elbows Outward: Weakens choke pressure by widening the gap. Keep elbows tight to ribs, using back muscles to squeeze.
• Over-Reliance on Arm Strength: Leads to fatigue without effectiveness. Instead, drop chest and body weight forward to apply pressure.
• Poor Base and Vulnerability to Bridge Escapes: Focusing too much on the choke can compromise base. Maintain head posting and heavy hips to anticipate bridging.
• Incorrect Head Positioning: Leaning head to the same side as choking arm increases reversal risk. Post head diagonally opposite the first grip.
• Incorrect Collar Grip Placement: Both hands gripping the same collar side prevents proper choke formation. Ensure each hand grips opposite lapels.
• Overcommitting When Strongly Defended: Insisting on the choke when strongly defended risks losing mount. Be ready to transition to alternative attacks like the Armbar.

Defending and Escaping the Cross Collar Choke from Mount

Effective defense against the Cross Collar Choke involves early recognition and proactive measures:

Early Defensive Strategies

• Grip Prevention: Immediately grip-fight to remove initial collar grips. Maintain hands near neck ("prayer hands") to block entries.
• Chin Tuck and Posture: Tuck chin down and slightly sideways to delay choke placement.

Escapes and Counters

• Bridge and Roll (Upa) Escape: Trap opponent's arm and bridge toward that side when they commit both hands to the choke.
• Elbow-Knee Escape: Frame elbow inside opponent's knee and shrimp to downgrade their mount position.
• Single-Hand Defense: Grip opponent's choking wrist, open opposite lapel, and turn body to widen choke gap.
• "Answer the Phone" Frame: Last-resort defense, framing forearm against opponent's choking arm while bridging or shrimping.
• Prevent High Mount: Shoulder walk backward to force opponent into lower mount, reducing choke leverage.
• Combining Escapes: Chain multiple escape attempts (bridge, shrimp, frame) to disrupt opponent's choke setup.

Strategic Applications and Optimal Timing

The Cross Collar Choke from Mount is strategically effective in specific scenarios:

• High Mount Situations: Ideal when knees are under opponent's armpits, limiting their defensive options.
• Opponent Pushing or Framing: Opponent's extended arms create space for initial collar grip.
• After Failed Arm Attacks: Transitioning from unsuccessful Armbar or Americana attempts back to mount and immediately attacking the collar.
• Grip Fighting Strategy: Threatening the choke forces opponents to expose arms or hips, opening alternative submissions.
• Combining with Ezekiel Choke: If second collar grip is blocked, transition to Ezekiel Choke using the established first grip.
• Patience and Pressure: Gradually adjusting grips and mount position forces opponent errors.
• Competition-Proven Effectiveness: Roger Gracie notably used this choke extensively in high-level competition.

Notable Matches Featuring the Cross Collar Choke from Mount

The Cross Collar Choke from Mount has featured prominently in historic matches:

• Helio Gracie vs. Yukio Kato (1951): Helio Gracie famously utilized this choke to secure victory.
• Roger Gracie's Black-Belt Victories: Roger Gracie achieved 13 black-belt wins via mounted cross choke, demonstrating its effectiveness at the highest competitive levels.