Master the Paper Cutter Choke: 3 Killer Variations from Keenan Cornelius

Unlock the Power of the Paper Cutter Choke with Keenan Cornelius

The paper cutter choke is a classic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu submission that catches many opponents off guard, especially from the closed guard. Named for the slicing motion of the forearm across the neck, this choke leverages leverage and precise grips to force a tap. World-renowned competitor and innovator Keenan Cornelius, known for his worm guard and back attack mastery, shares three dynamic variations in a must-watch demonstration. These setups are ideal for no-gi and gi practitioners alike, translating seamlessly into MMA grappling scenarios where controlling posture from the bottom is crucial.

Whether you're a white belt building fundamentals or a black belt refining your attack chains, these variations offer fresh angles on a timeless move. Cornelius's breakdowns highlight subtle details that make the difference between a near-miss and a quick finish. Let's dive into each one, step by step, with tips to integrate them into your training.

Variation 1: The Classic Paper Cutter from Closed Guard

This foundational version starts from a strong closed guard base, emphasizing posture breaks and forearm control. Here's how to execute it:

1. Establish Closed Guard: Wrap your legs tightly around your opponent's waist, feet locked. Use your hips to off-balance them forward, breaking their posture so their head drops low.

2. Grip Setup: With your right arm (assuming you're choking on their right side), slide your forearm deep under their chin, palm facing up. Your left hand grips your right bicep or wrist for reinforcement—Cornelius prefers the bicep grip for extra squeeze power.

3. Sleeve and Hip Control: Your left foot on their hip prevents them from posturing up, while your right knee drives into their side for torque.

4. The Cut: Rotate your hips explosively to the left, slicing your forearm across their neck like a paper cutter blade. Pull with your gripping hand while expanding your elbows to compress the carotid arteries.

Pro Tip: In gi training, use a Hyperfly gi collar grip with your left hand on their far lapel for added control—this prevents escapes and amps up the pressure. Common mistake? Rushing the slice without full posture break; always prioritize control first.

This variation shines in BJJ rolls and MMA bottom games, where you can chain it into sweeps if they defend.

Variation 2: Sleeve Grip Paper Cutter for Enhanced Control

Cornelius levels up the classic by incorporating a sleeve grip, which locks down the opponent's arm and creates a tighter frame. Perfect for dealing with defensive t-poses or high postures.

1. Guard Retention: Same closed guard entry, but as they posture, bait them into grabbing your gi pants or freeing an arm.

2. Double Grip Magic: Right forearm under the chin as before. Now, instead of bicep grip, grab their right sleeve cuff with your left hand, pulling it across your centerline. This immobilizes their posting arm.

3. Leg Positioning: Left foot on hip, right knee pinching their triceps. Arch your back slightly to elevate their elbow.

4. Finish Strong: Hip escape to the side while yanking the sleeve down and slicing the forearm. The trapped arm amplifies the choke by preventing neck turns.

Training Application: Drill this against resisting partners who stack or frame. In no-gi, adapt with an underhook or wrist control. For Muay Thai or wrestling transitions, use it to off-balance standing opponents before taking them down.

This setup's beauty is its adaptability—Cornelius uses it to transition into leg entanglements if the choke fails.

Variation 3: Leg-Assisted Paper Cutter for Desperate Defenses

The third variation addresses common defenses like hand-fighting or sprawling posture. By involving your legs more aggressively, you create inescapable pressure.

1. Posture Break with Legs: From closed guard, open your guard momentarily to insert your right shin across their chest, pushing their head down. Reclose with ankles hooked high.

2. Forearm Insertion: Snake the right forearm deep, thumb towards their shoulder for optimal blade angle.

3. Overhook Grip: Left arm overhooks their elbow, hand grabbing behind their triceps. This mirrors the sleeve grip but adds shoulder control.

4. Explosive Finish: Kick your left leg over their back (like a half butterfly hook), bridging hips violently to the left. The leg overhook seals the deal, forcing the neck into your forearm vice.

Advanced Insight: Cornelius emphasizes timing the leg kick with the hip swivel—practice slowly to avoid gassing out. In competition, chain to back takes if they turtle. For MMA fighters, this counters sprawls effectively, blending wrestling and submission hunting.

Why These Variations Dominate the Mats

Keenan Cornelius's demos showcase why the paper cutter remains relevant: it's high-percentage, posture-dependent, and chains effortlessly into sweeps, armbars, or triangles. Train them progressively—start with compliant partners, then add resistance. Film your rolls to check forearm depth and hip torque.

Gear Recommendations for Optimal Training:

• Gi Practitioners: A durable gi like Hyperfly ensures grips hold without ripping during intense drills.


• No-Gi Fighters: Rash guards and shorts from brands like Venum provide slick control without bunching.


• Protection: Mouthguards and finger tape prevent injuries during live rolling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid Across All Variations:

• Shallow forearm insertion: Go deep or go home.


• Static hips: Always move explosively.


• Neglecting defense: Scout for armbar counters from smart opponents.

Integrating into Your Game: Real-World Scenarios

• Gym Sparring: Use Variation 1 as your bread-and-butter from bottom guard.


• MMA Rounds: Variation 2 shines against strikers posturing for punches.


• Tournaments: Variation 3 for late-match fatigue when defenses slip.

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