Von Flue Choke

What is the Von Flue Choke? (Definition & Historical Origin)

The Von Flue choke is a shoulder compression choke primarily utilized as a counter to the guillotine choke. Named after UFC fighter Jason Von Flue, this technique gained widespread recognition after Von Flue successfully submitted Alex Karalexis at UFC Fight Night 3 (2006). Initially popularized within MMA circles, the Von Flue choke has since become a fundamental guillotine defense in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling.

Biomechanics and Principles of the Von Flue Choke

The Von Flue choke operates as a blood choke, targeting the carotid arteries through precise shoulder compression. Mechanically similar to the Head-and-Arm Triangle (Kata Gatame), it leverages the opponent's own trapped arm against their neck. The practitioner secures a tight gable grip, immobilizing the opponent's guillotine arm. By driving the shoulder downward into the opponent's neck, one carotid artery is compressed, while the opponent's trapped arm simultaneously compresses the opposite side.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying the Von Flue Choke from Side Control

1. Pass your opponent's guard to side control on the opposite side of their guillotine arm (the "weak side").
2. Secure the opponent's choking arm by positioning your head and shoulder tightly against it, preventing them from releasing the guillotine.
3. Establish a firm gable grip with your hands, locking the opponent's arm securely in place.
4. Drive your near-side shoulder firmly into the side of your opponent's neck, applying consistent downward pressure.
5. Slightly rotate your hips toward your opponent's head, distributing your weight effectively to maximize choke pressure.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls When Executing the Von Flue Choke

Passing to the Wrong Side

Moving toward the opponent's choking arm inadvertently tightens their guillotine rather than neutralizing it.

Failing to Fully Clear Guard

Attempting the choke without fully passing guard compromises pressure and control.

Inadequate Arm Control

Allowing the opponent to release their guillotine grip due to insufficient control negates the choke.

Overcommitting Weight and Losing Balance

Excessive forward momentum without a stable base risks being swept or reversed.

Allowing Guard Recovery

Leaving space enables the opponent to regain guard, disrupting the choke and facilitating escape.

Insufficient or Misplaced Shoulder Pressure

Incorrect shoulder placement or inadequate pressure significantly reduces choke effectiveness.

Defending and Escaping the Von Flue Choke

Early Release of Guillotine Grip

Immediately releasing the guillotine grip when the opponent passes to side control prevents the choke from being established.

High-Elbow (Marcelotine) or Arm-In Guillotine Variations

Utilizing these variations makes it challenging for the opponent to trap your arm and apply the Von Flue choke.

Maintaining Guard or Half-Guard

Preventing the opponent from achieving full side control denies them the necessary position to execute the choke.

Creating Frames and Defensive Posture

If caught late, quickly framing against the opponent's shoulder or neck can temporarily relieve pressure.

Recognizing Danger Early and Tapping Safely

If escape becomes impossible, promptly tap verbally or with your feet to avoid injury or unconsciousness.

Strategic Application: When and How to Use the Von Flue Choke

The Von Flue choke is most effective as a strategic counter rather than a primary attack. Common scenarios include:

Countering Guillotine Attempts During Takedown Scrambles

When an opponent attempts a guillotine during a takedown, immediately passing to side control sets up the Von Flue choke.

Transitioning Directly from Guillotine Defense to Submission

Applying shoulder pressure during guillotine defense can force the opponent to loosen their guard, facilitating the pass and subsequent choke.

Standing Guillotine Defense Leading to Von Flue Choke

Circling to the opponent's side during a standing guillotine attempt allows an immediate transition into the choke upon completing the takedown.

Gi and No-Gi Contexts

The mechanics of the Von Flue choke remain consistent across gi and no-gi settings, relying primarily on positional pressure rather than specific grips.

High-Level Considerations

At elite levels, timing and opportunism are critical, as experienced opponents rarely hold guillotines excessively long.

Notable Examples of the Von Flue Choke in Competition

Jason Von Flue vs. Alex Karalexis (UFC Fight Night 3, 2006)

This landmark submission introduced the Von Flue choke to mainstream MMA audiences, highlighting its effectiveness as a guillotine counter.

Impact on Grappling and MMA Strategy

Following its introduction, the Von Flue choke significantly influenced how athletes approach guillotine attacks and defenses, becoming a staple technique taught in academies worldwide.