Understanding the North South Choke
What is the North South Choke?
The North South Choke is a blood and air choke that applies pressure to the carotid arteries and restricts breathing by compressing the opponent’s neck against the attacker’s shoulder and chest. Unlike traditional gi chokes that rely on gripping the collar, this submission works equally well in no-gi and MMA settings.
How Does the North South Choke Work?
This submission works by:
- Controlling the North South Position: Keeping a tight, low base to prevent escapes.
- Wrapping the Arm Around the Neck: Using an underhook to trap the opponent’s head.
- Applying Shoulder & Chest Pressure: Driving weight downward to cut off air and blood supply.
- Adjusting for Tightness: Rotating the hips and engaging the squeeze to maximize pressure.
Best Setups for the North South Choke
1. North South Choke from Side Control
Transitioning from side control is one of the easiest ways to set up the choke.
- Control the opponent’s head with an underhook.
- Move into the north-south position, keeping your chest heavy.
- Wrap the opponent’s neck, engage the squeeze, and drive downward for the finish.
2. North South Choke from Failed Arm Triangle
If an arm triangle attempt fails, the north-south choke is a strong follow-up submission.
- Start by setting up the arm triangle from mount or side control.
- If the opponent defends, transition to north-south position.
- Adjust grip positioning and use your shoulder pressure to secure the choke.
3. North South Choke from Kimura Setup
The Kimura trap can be used to transition into a north-south choke.
- Control the opponent’s wrist and secure a Kimura grip.
- Use the Kimura grip to pass into north-south position.
- Release the Kimura and apply the choke pressure to finish the submission.
Why the North South Choke is Effective
This choke is favored by **MMA fighters and high-level grapplers** for several reasons:
- Difficult to Defend: Once fully locked in, it’s extremely hard to escape.
- Works in No-Gi & MMA: Does not rely on gi grips, making it versatile.
- Can Be Used Against Larger Opponents: Uses body weight and positioning rather than brute strength.
North South Choke in UFC & High-Level BJJ
The North South Choke has been used successfully in UFC fights and elite BJJ competitions:
- Jeff Monson: One of the best practitioners of the North South Choke in MMA.
- Marcelo Garcia: Frequently used this submission in no-gi grappling tournaments.
- Josh Barnett: Used a modified version to submit Dean Lister in ADCC.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- Not Keeping Heavy Pressure: If there’s too much space, the opponent can escape.
- Misplacing the Shoulder: The choke works best when the **shoulder and chest** are positioned over the neck.
- Forgetting to Adjust Angles: A small rotation of the hips can significantly tighten the choke.
How to Improve Your North South Choke
- Drill Positioning: Focus on maintaining heavy pressure before applying the choke.
- Control the Opponent’s Arms: Prevent them from creating space or framing against the choke.
- Study High-Level Fighters: Watch how elite grapplers set up and finish the North South Choke.
