Unlocking the Power of the Guillotine Choke in BJJ and MMA
The guillotine choke stands as one of the most versatile and devastating submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), grappling, MMA, and even wrestling. It's a go-to move for fighters who excel in both gi and no-gi scenarios, capable of catching opponents from standing positions, guard, or top control. Whether you're a beginner building fundamentals or an advanced competitor refining your arsenal, mastering the guillotine and its variations can transform your game.
In this guide, we'll dive deep into the classic guillotine, the sneaky anaconda choke, and the dominant mounted guillotine. Drawing from the expertise of seasoned BJJ coach Rodrigo Kim, we'll cover step-by-step executions, common mistakes, and training tips. These techniques aren't just for the mats—they translate seamlessly to MMA cages where quick transitions from strikes to subs can end fights.
Why the Guillotine Family Rocks for Combat Sports
- Accessibility: Works against anyone, regardless of size or skill level.
- Versatility: Hits from closed guard, half guard, mount, side control, or even standing.
- No-Gi Friendly: Ideal for MMA, wrestling, and submission grappling events.
- High Finish Rate: Stats from major comps like ADCC show guillotines accounting for a significant portion of front-headlock submissions.
The Classic Guillotine Choke: Foundation of the Family
Start here if you're new to submissions. The standard guillotine targets the neck from a front headlock position, squeezing the carotid arteries for a quick tap or sleep.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
1. Secure the Front Headlock: From standing or sprawl, wrap one arm around the opponent's neck, palm up. Your other hand grips your own wrist for control. 2. Drop to Guard: Fall back to closed or open guard, pulling the head deep into your hips. Elevate your hips to align the neck. 3. Chin Tuck and Squeeze: Force the opponent's chin to their chest with your forearm. Rotate your squeezing elbow inward while arching your back. 4. Leg Assistance (Optional): Throw your inside leg over the back of their head for the arm-in variation, or use both legs to squeeze the body. 5. Finish: Bridge explosively if they posture up. Maintain constant pressure—don't let them breathe!Beginner Tip: Drill from turtle position. Common error? Loose grips—always clasp hands like a vice.
Advanced Tweak for MMA: In the cage, transition from a double-leg defense. Pair with knees to the body for pain compliance.
Level Up: The Anaconda Choke – A Game-Changing Variation
The anaconda evolves the guillotine into a rolling, no-gi monster popularized by Danaher Death Squad athletes. It's sneaky from front headlocks or single-leg defenses, rolling the opponent over for back access or a direct finish.
Execution Steps
1. Initiate Front Headlock: Same as classic—deep neck control, non-gripping hand on bicep or tricep. 2. Snap Down and Rotate: Snap the head down, then rotate your hips to your non-dominant side (e.g., righty rolls left). 3. Figure-Four Grip: Slide your gripping arm under the armpit, grabbing your own bicep. Your free hand snakes behind the head. 4. Roll Through: Explode into a forward roll, landing in north-south with their arm trapped. 5. Squeeze and Adjust: Posture up, pull the elbow tight to your chest, and squeeze while hip escaping for leverage.Training Drill: Partner resistance rolls. Mistake to avoid: Incomplete arm control—always trap that far arm.
MMA Application: Perfect counter to wrestlers shooting takedowns. Think Khabib-style pressure meets submission threat. In kickboxing or Muay Thai sparring, use it to punish clinch entries.
Pro Insight from Rodrigo Kim: "The key is explosive rotation—don't hesitate, or they'll stack you."
Mounted Guillotine: Dominance from the Top
Once you're comfortable on top, the mounted guillotine crushes from full mount or high mount. It's a posture-breaker that leads to mount or back takes.
Detailed Steps
1. Achieve High Mount: Slide knees high on their torso, hands framing the head. 2. Trap the Head: One arm under the neck (palm up), other hand grips wrist. Posture tall to off-balance. 3. Slide to Side: Shift hips to the trapped side, feeding the arm deep. 4. Lock and Fall Back: Grip your wrist, fall to the side into guard or half, pulling tight. 5. Elevate and Finish: Hip up aggressively, using your legs to control posture.Beginner Progression: Start slow from knee-on-belly. Error fix: Don't rush the grip—secure first.
Advanced/Wrestling Twist: From riding time in freestyle wrestling, transition to this for bonus points in subs.
Rodrigo Kim's Tip: "Use your mount to fatigue them first—shoulder pressure wears down defenses."
Common Pitfalls and Fixes Across All Variations
- Pitfall: Weak Posture Control → Fix: Always drive the head down with forearms.
- Pitfall: Exposed Back → Fix: Wall drills or partner stacks to build anti-stack strength.
- Pitfall: Arm In/Arm Out Confusion → Arm-in for blood choke (faster), arm-out for cravat control.
Drills to Build Guillotine Proficiency
1. Positional Sparring: 3-min rounds from front headlock only.
2. Flow Rolling: Chain guillotine → anaconda → mount attempts.
3. Resistance Training: Partner defends 80%, you attack variations.
4. MMA Integration: Shadowbox entries, then live spar with strikes.
Aim for 50 reps per variation weekly. Track finishes in your journal.
Real-World Applications in Combat Sports
- BJJ Tourneys: Sneak anaconda from De La Riva guard pulls.
- MMA: Diaz brothers' guillotine vs. kickboxers.
- Wrestling: Counter single-legs into rolling anaconda.
- Kickboxing/Muay Thai: Clinch guillotine dumps.
Final Thoughts: Evolve Your Game with Guillotines
From the foundational squeeze to rolling devastation and top dominance, guillotine variations offer endless offense. Follow Rodrigo Kim's advice: drill relentlessly, adapt to resistance, and stay explosive. Whether prepping for comps or gym rolls, these will boost your sub rate.
Ready to gear up? Check out Apollo MMA for premium BJJ rashies, no-gi shorts, and training tools to support your journey. Train smart, tap fast!
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