Triangle Choke

What is the Triangle Choke? (Definition & Historical Context)

The Triangle Choke, known as "Triângulo" in Portuguese and "Sankaku-Jime" in Japanese, is a figure-four stranglehold executed using the legs. Originating from Judo in the early 20th century, it was developed by Japanese judoka Tsunetane Oda and Yaichibei Kanemitsu. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners later adopted and refined the technique, elevating it into one of the art's signature submissions. Iconic matches such as Royce Gracie vs Dan Severn at UFC 4, Fabricio Werdum vs Fedor Emelianenko at Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Werdum, and Anderson Silva vs Chael Sonnen at UFC 117 have significantly contributed to its global recognition.

Biomechanics of the Triangle Choke (How It Works)

The Triangle Choke functions by creating a tight vise around the opponent's neck and one arm using the attacker's legs. One leg extends across the opponent's neck, with the back of the knee pressing firmly against one carotid artery. Simultaneously, the opponent's trapped arm and shoulder compress the opposite artery. The attacker then locks their second leg over the ankle of the first, forming a secure figure-four configuration. Proper execution involves pivoting approximately 90 degrees relative to the opponent, pulling down on the opponent's head to break posture, elevating the hips upward, and squeezing the knees inward. This precise combination rapidly induces unconsciousness by restricting blood flow.

Applying the Triangle Choke from Closed Guard

The Closed Guard remains the most common and effective position for executing the Triangle Choke. Initially, the attacker breaks the opponent's posture, isolating one arm inside and one arm outside the guard. In gi contexts, practitioners typically utilize collar-and-sleeve grips to control posture and arm positioning. In no-gi scenarios, head and wrist control are standard setups. Once posture is compromised, the attacker shoots their legs upward, locking the figure-four around the opponent's neck and trapped arm. Adjusting the angle by pivoting perpendicular to the opponent's shoulders is crucial for tightening the choke. If the initial Triangle attempt is defended, practitioners often transition seamlessly into complementary submissions such as the Armbar or Omoplata.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Executing the Triangle Choke

Several common mistakes can undermine the effectiveness of the Triangle Choke:

• Incorrect leg configuration, such as crossing ankles instead of locking a proper figure-four.
• Allowing the opponent's shoulder to slip out, creating excess space.
• Failing to pivot perpendicular to the opponent, remaining square and reducing choke pressure.
• Neglecting posture control, enabling the opponent to posture up and escape.
• Not properly positioning the opponent's trapped arm across their neck, reducing carotid artery compression.

Avoiding these pitfalls ensures a tight, effective Triangle Choke.

Effective Defenses and Escapes from the Triangle Choke

Early Prevention and Posture Control

Defending against the Triangle Choke requires early recognition and immediate action. Maintaining proper posture and hip control prevents the attacker from fully locking the choke.

Creating Frames and Space

Inserting a hand or forearm inside the choke creates frames, alleviating pressure and buying time to escape.

Stacking and Pressure Application

Driving forward and stacking the opponent can relieve pressure, forcing their legs open and facilitating escape.

Last-Resort Escapes

When fully locked, changing angles or applying forward pressure may offer escape opportunities, though these carry higher risks.

Preventive measures, such as maintaining strong posture and avoiding the one-arm-in, one-arm-out scenario, remain critical for effective defense.

Strategic Applications and Variations of the Triangle Choke

Positional Variations

• Mounted Triangle Choke: Applied from top mount by isolating an opponent's arm and threading the legs around the neck and shoulder.
• Rear Triangle Choke: Executed from back mount or turtle positions, trapping the opponent's arm and neck from behind.

Submission Chains and Combinations

The Triangle Choke frequently integrates with submissions like the Armbar and Omoplata, creating dual-threat scenarios that overwhelm opponents.

Gi vs. No-Gi Tactical Differences

Gi setups often involve collar-and-sleeve grips, providing greater friction and control. No-gi setups rely on head and wrist control, demanding quicker execution due to reduced friction.

Competition and MMA Effectiveness

The Triangle Choke has proven highly effective across gi and no-gi competitions, as well as in MMA, due to its adaptability and ability to neutralize striking opponents.

The Triangle Choke remains a fundamental, versatile, and highly effective submission across all grappling disciplines.