Tarikoplata

What is the Tarikoplata? (Definition & Historical Context)

The Tarikoplata is a hybrid shoulder-lock submission that combines elements of the Kimura and Omoplata. Developed by Norwegian grappler Tarik Hopstock around 2014 at Frontline Academy in Oslo under coach Eduardo "Teta" Rios, this innovative submission gained widespread recognition in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions starting around 2015. Renowned coach John Danaher has praised the Tarikoplata for its effectiveness and incorporated it into his team's training curriculum, underscoring its acceptance at the highest levels of competition.

Biomechanics of the Tarikoplata (Detailed Mechanics & Principles)

The Tarikoplata primarily targets the shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint), applying intense internal rotational pressure to the shoulder ligaments and rotator cuff. The technique begins similarly to a standard Kimura, with the attacker securing a figure-four grip on the opponent's arm—one hand controlling the wrist, the other hooking under the elbow. The critical difference lies in the use of the attacker's leg as a leverage point. The attacker swings one leg over the opponent's shoulder, creating a powerful leg-arm frame that traps and immobilizes the opponent's arm.

Once this leg-arm frame is established, the attacker transitions their grip from the opponent's wrist to their own thigh or shin, significantly increasing leverage. The finishing torque is applied by rotating the opponent's captured arm toward the attacker's head, utilizing the hips and leg to generate maximum leverage. This biomechanical advantage allows the Tarikoplata to overcome strong defensive grips and resistance, making it highly effective even against physically stronger opponents.

Common Setups and Entries to the Tarikoplata

The Tarikoplata can be effectively applied from various positions. Common setups include:

Half Guard (Z-Guard) Bottom

• Utilize a knee shield and underhook to isolate the opponent's arm, creating space to swing the leg over and establish the leg-arm frame.

Closed Guard

• Transition from stalled Kimura or Omoplata attempts, capitalizing on the opponent's defensive posture to secure the Tarikoplata.

Top Positions (Side Control, Mount)

• Transition from a secured Kimura grip when the opponent strongly defends by gripping their belt or clothing. Step the leg over the opponent's head or shoulder, rolling into the Tarikoplata.

The Tarikoplata is particularly effective as a follow-up submission when initial shoulder-lock attempts are defended, providing an alternative angle and increased leverage to finish the submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying the Tarikoplata

Practitioners should be mindful of several common pitfalls when executing the Tarikoplata:

Inadequate Arm Isolation

• Failing to tightly secure the opponent's arm allows escapes. Ensure the opponent's elbow is pinned tightly and transition grips securely.

Poor Leg Positioning

• Incorrect placement or insufficient pressure from the attacking leg reduces control. The leg must remain heavy and correctly positioned over the opponent's shoulder.

Not Freeing the Bottom Leg

• When attacking from guard positions, failing to elevate and extract the bottom leg can stall the submission. Bridging the hips upward helps free the leg for proper positioning.

Lack of Body Control

• Neglecting to control the opponent's body during transitions allows them to roll or scramble out. Secure grips on the opponent's belt or pants to manage their movements.

Insufficient Torque Application

• Relying solely on upper-body strength rather than involving the hips and legs diminishes finishing power. Engage the entire body to generate effective torque.

How to Defend and Escape the Tarikoplata (Counter-Strategies)

Effective defense against the Tarikoplata involves early recognition and proactive measures:

Early Prevention

• Keep elbows tight and deny the initial Kimura grip to prevent arm isolation.

Blocking or Trapping the Leg

• As the attacker swings their leg over, block or trap it to prevent the leg-arm frame from forming.

Maintaining Posture and Squaring Up

• Rotate the torso flat to the mat, reducing shoulder pressure and potentially freeing the trapped arm.

Rolling Through (Last Resort)

• If fully caught, rolling with the attacker in the direction of the lock may relieve pressure, though it risks positional disadvantage.

Releasing Defensive Grips Early

• Avoid secondary submissions like biceps slicers by releasing defensive grips once the leg-arm frame is established.

Tarikoplata vs. Omoplata, Baratoplata, and Kimura (Comparative Analysis)

Tarikoplata vs. Omoplata

• The Tarikoplata uses a leg-arm frame for tighter control and leverage, often finishing in a top position. The Omoplata relies primarily on legs and hip pressure, typically finishing with the attacker perpendicular to the opponent.

Tarikoplata vs. Baratoplata

• The Tarikoplata employs one leg and a pulling motion inward toward the attacker's core. In contrast, the Baratoplata uses a leg triangle and pushes the opponent's arm outward, away from their torso.

Tarikoplata vs. Kimura

• The Tarikoplata incorporates the attacker's leg for increased leverage and control, overcoming common Kimura defenses without relying solely on arm strength. It is particularly effective when opponents use strong grips to defend traditional Kimura attempts.

Notable Matches and Athletes Featuring the Tarikoplata

Tarik Hopstock, the creator of the Tarikoplata, notably submitted Sean McDonagh at Polaris 11 (2019), earning "Submission of the Night" honors. Hopstock's consistent success with the Tarikoplata in high-level competition has significantly contributed to its widespread adoption and recognition as a reliable submission technique.