Lapel Choke

What is the Lapel Choke? (Cachecol Choke Overview)

The Lapel Choke, commonly known as the Cachecol Choke (Portuguese for "scarf choke"), is a gi-based strangulation technique that employs a jacket lapel wrapped around the opponent's neck like a scarf. Originating from Judo's scarf-hold submissions, this choke gained prominence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through innovators such as Ronaldo "Jacaré" Souza. In contemporary competition, it remains highly effective, notably demonstrated by heavyweight competitor Gabriel de Oliveira, who secured numerous submission victories using the Cachecol Choke with his own lapel.

Biomechanics and Principles of the Lapel Choke

The Lapel Choke utilizes a gi lapel as a ligature around the opponent's neck, primarily compressing the carotid arteries to restrict blood flow to the brain. Depending on positioning, it can also apply pressure to the trachea. Proper grip placement is essential, typically involving a deep, palm-down grip near the lapel's end to maximize tightening range. Body positioning, rotation, and leverage significantly influence the choke's effectiveness; attackers often rotate toward a north–south orientation to remove slack and amplify pressure. Complementary shoulder or forearm pressure further ensures a tight and efficient strangle.

Step-by-Step Guide: Lapel Choke from Side Control and Scarf Hold

1. From top side control or Kesa Gatame (scarf hold), open either your own or your opponent's far-side lapel.
2. Feed the lapel underneath the opponent's far-side arm and across their neck, securing it firmly with the hand positioned beneath their head.
3. Block the opponent's far hip with your free hand or arm to maintain positional control and prevent escapes.
4. Rotate your torso toward the opponent's head, shifting toward a north–south orientation to tighten the choke.
5. Finish by twisting your torso and dropping your weight, steadily increasing pressure until the opponent taps or loses consciousness.

Common Mistakes and Execution Pitfalls

Practitioners frequently encounter several pitfalls when executing the Lapel Choke:

• Using the incorrect (near-side) lapel: This creates improper constriction angles, allowing opponents to defend or escape easily.
• Poor grip placement and slack: A shallow grip or excessive slack significantly reduces choke effectiveness. Always secure a deep grip near the gi tail.
• Neglecting hip control: Failing to block the opponent's far hip allows them to bridge or turn, loosening the choke.
• Telegraphing the choke: Visibly feeding the lapel without distraction or positional pressure alerts the opponent, enabling early defense.
• Forcing the choke against strong defenses: Persistently pulling against established defensive frames wastes energy and risks losing position. Instead, adjust or transition to alternative attacks.

Defensive Strategies and Escapes from the Lapel Choke

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

• Early prevention: Immediately recognize and interrupt lapel feeds by stripping grips or adjusting your position.
• Inserting frames: Place a hand or forearm between the lapel and your neck to relieve pressure and maintain blood flow.
• Hand-fighting: Actively peel or pry the attacker's grip off the lapel to dismantle the choke's structure.
• Preventing rotation: Follow the attacker's movements, maintaining alignment to prevent them from achieving the tightening angle.
• Last-resort escapes: If nearly finished, attempt explosive bridging, rolling, or turning to turtle position to create scrambles and relieve pressure.

Strategic Applications and Optimal Timing for the Lapel Choke

The Lapel Choke is strategically effective when applied opportunistically from dominant positions:

• Opponent turning away from side control: Capitalize on opponents exposing their neck when attempting to escape side control.
• Kesa Gatame setups: Utilize the scarf hold position's natural orientation to easily feed lapels around the opponent's neck.
• Guard passing transitions: Immediately secure lapel grips during guard passes, catching opponents off-guard before they establish defenses.
• Baiting reactions: Threaten positions like knee-on-belly to induce defensive reactions that expose the neck.
• Combination attacks: Chain the Lapel Choke with other submissions (e.g., arm triangles, armbars) or positional advancements, leveraging defensive reactions.
• Low-risk, high-reward: Apply the choke from dominant top positions without sacrificing positional control, making it ideal for competition scenarios.

Notable Variations of the Lapel Choke

Several notable variations of the Lapel Choke exist, each with distinct grip placements and mechanics:

• Traditional Cachecol Choke: Uses the attacker's own lapel, looping it around the opponent's neck.
• Canto Choke variation: Employs the opponent's lapel to achieve a similar strangle.
• "Assassin" or "Ninja" choke variations: Involve feeding the attacker's own lapel under the opponent's arm into the hand beneath the head, forming a tight noose.

Tips for Mastering the Lapel Choke

To effectively master the Lapel Choke, practitioners should:

• Prioritize deep lapel grips near the gi tail for maximum tightening range.
• Maintain constant shoulder and body pressure to conceal lapel feeds and prevent telegraphing.
• Practice smooth transitions between positional control and choke application to enhance timing.
• Develop sensitivity to opponents' defensive reactions, enabling effective chaining of submissions.
• Regularly drill positional entries and grip setups to improve execution precision and timing.