Loop Choke

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

The Loop Choke, known in Portuguese as "estrangulamento rodado" (rolled choke), is a gi-specific collar choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) designed to restrict blood flow to the brain by targeting the carotid arteries. Originating from the renowned Carlson Gracie Academy in Rio de Janeiro, this submission was notably refined and popularized by influential practitioners such as Otávio "Peixotinho" de Oliveira, Isaías de Souza, Marcelo Saporito, and Vinícius "Vinicinho" Cruz. Cruz, in particular, perfected the Loop Choke during the 1990s, frequently employing it in competition and significantly contributing to its widespread adoption.

Biomechanics and Principles of the Loop Choke

The Loop Choke relies on precise biomechanics and strategic positioning. Unlike deeper collar grips common in other chokes, the Loop Choke begins with a shallow cross-collar grip at collarbone level, providing the necessary mobility to loop the arm effectively around the opponent's neck. Breaking the opponent's posture is essential, as the choke becomes available when their head is lowered—often during guard passing or turtle positions. The looping motion involves elevating the gripping arm's elbow over the opponent's neck, tightening the lapel around the carotid arteries. A secondary grip—such as grabbing the opponent's shoulder, arm, or your own wrist—is crucial to block escapes and reinforce the choke. Practitioners frequently incorporate rolling or rotational movements to further tighten the choke and maximize pressure.

Step-by-Step Guide: Executing the Loop Choke from Guard Positions

1. Establish Grip: Secure a shallow cross-collar grip at collarbone level, aligning your index finger with your opponent's collarbone and thumb near their jawline.
2. Break Posture: Pull downward on the collar to lower your opponent's head, compromising their posture.
3. Optimal Positioning: Keep your head and chest higher than your opponent's head to effectively trap their neck.
4. Looping Motion: Lift your gripping arm's elbow upward and loop your forearm around the back of your opponent's neck, tightening the collar around their carotid arteries.
5. Secondary Grip: With your free hand, secure a secondary grip by grabbing your own wrist, the opponent's far collar, shoulder, or arm to prevent escapes.
6. Finalize Choke: Roll or fall toward the side of your secondary grip, using body rotation to cinch the choke tightly and force the submission.

Applying the Loop Choke from Turtle and Front Headlock Positions

The Loop Choke is highly effective when defending against takedown attempts, particularly from top turtle or front headlock positions:

1. Feed Collar Grip: After sprawling on your opponent's takedown attempt, immediately establish a shallow collar grip at collarbone level.
2. Loop Arm: Elevate your gripping arm's elbow and loop your forearm around your opponent's neck, ensuring your elbow clears their shoulder.
3. Roll Underneath: Initiate a rolling motion beneath your opponent, using momentum to tighten the choke and flip them onto their back.
4. Maximize Pressure: Complete the roll, leveraging body rotation and gravity to maximize choking pressure and secure the submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying the Loop Choke

• Overly Deep Grip: Avoid gripping too deeply behind the opponent's neck, as this restricts mobility and reduces choke effectiveness.
• Incorrect Head Position: Maintain a higher head and chest position than your opponent to prevent escapes.
• Neglecting Secondary Grip: Always secure a secondary grip to block escape routes and reinforce the choke.
• Improper Arm Alignment: Ensure proper elbow elevation and wrist flexion to apply a blood choke rather than an ineffective air choke.
• Incorrect Rolling Direction: Roll toward the side of your secondary grip to maintain consistent pressure and prevent escapes.

Effective Defenses and Escapes Against the Loop Choke

• Grip Prevention: Immediately break or control any cross-collar grip to prevent the choke from initiating.
• Maintain Posture: Keep your head upright and posture strong, avoiding being pulled downward into the choke.
• Frame and Control Lapel: Frame against the choking arm's elbow and control your own lapel to create space and relieve pressure.
• Roll with the Choke: As a last resort, roll in the direction of the choke to alleviate pressure and attempt an escape.
• Stay Calm: Tuck your chin, remain composed, and quickly regain posture to neutralize the threat.

Strategic Applications and Optimal Timing for the Loop Choke

The Loop Choke is strategically valuable due to its versatility and element of surprise. Practitioners commonly use it as a counter against aggressive guard passing or during transitional scrambles. It pairs effectively with sweep threats, forcing opponents to compromise their posture and expose their necks. Opportunistic application during guard passing or takedown attempts capitalizes on opponents' forward momentum and lowered head positions, making it a powerful submission in competitive scenarios.

Notable Competition Highlights Featuring the Loop Choke

• Alexandre Vieira famously secured the Submission of the Year 2017 using a Loop Choke, putting his opponent to sleep in a high-profile match.
• Vinícius "Vinicinho" Cruz frequently utilized the Loop Choke in competitions throughout the 1990s, significantly contributing to its popularity.
• Modern competitors continue to effectively employ the Loop Choke in IBJJF tournaments, demonstrating its enduring relevance and effectiveness at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition.