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How to Execute the Cross Collar Choke (Classic Grip) from Mount

At Legacy BJJ Omaha, we believe that mastery of the basics is what separates a good grappler from a great one. While there are countless complex variations of the cross collar choke, this guide focuses on the Classic Grip, the fundamental version required for white belt stripe testing.

Following the instruction of Senior Professor Ed Shobe, we have broken down this proven strategy into actionable steps to ensure you maintain control and finish the submission with precision.

Step 1: Secure the High Mount

Before attacking the neck, you must secure your position. Start in a High Mount by shifting your weight upward. This positioning is critical because it eliminates the opponent’s ability to use an elbow escape, effectively trapping their arms and neutralizing their defense.

Watch: Senior Professor Ed Shobe Cross Collar Choke from Mount

Step 2: Control the Elbow and Set the First Grip

To prevent the opponent from defending their collar, you must first isolate an arm.

  • The Clamp: Use your thumb and middle finger to clamp down on the opponent’s elbow on the side you intend to attack.
  • The Slide: While holding the arm in place, slide your opposite hand deep into the collar.
  • The Classic Grip: In BJJ, we primarily use two grips—thumb in or thumb out. For this fundamental version, use the Classic Grip: four fingers deep inside the collar with your thumb holding the outside of the Gi.

Step 3: The Second Connection (The Under-Hook)

Once the first grip is established, release the elbow and reach across for the second connection.

  • The Path: A key technical point is to reach under the first arm, not over it.
  • Deep Placement: Apply the same Classic Grip principle on the opposite side, sliding your four fingers as deep as possible into the collar.

Step 4: Creating the Tension

With both connections secured, you need to eliminate any slack in the Gi.

  • The Pull: Turn your palms toward your face and pull upward, tightening the Gi against the opponent’s neck.

Step 5: Bracing and Pressure

As you prepare to finish, you must anticipate the opponent’s counter-attack.

  • The Brace: Move your head toward the opposite side you are attacking. This prevents the opponent from using an Upa (bridge) to roll you off; your head acts as a third post to maintain balance.
  • The Finish: Lean your body weight into the opponent and roll your wrists back—like revving a motorcycle. This creates maximum pressure on the carotid arteries, eliminating oxygen flow and forcing the tap.

Ready to Test Your Skills?

Mastering the Cross Collar Choke is a rite of passage for every white belt at Legacy BJJ. If you are preparing for your next stripe test or simply want to sharpen your finishing mechanics, follow the steps below:

Your 3-Step Action Plan:

  • Sign the Waiver: New to the mats? Complete our Digital Waiver before your first class.
  • Check the Schedule: View our Official Class Schedule to join our next Fundamentals session.
  • Visit the Gym: Bring your clean white Gi and get ready to train with the best community in Omaha.

📧 Email Us: matt@legacybjjomaha.com

📞 Call/Text: (402) 651-7721

Join the Community Online:

Follow us for daily technique clips, student highlights, and gym updates:

How to Execute the Cross Collar Choke (Classic Grip) from Mount

At Legacy BJJ Omaha, we believe that mastery of the basics is what separates a good grappler from a great one. While there are countless complex variations of the cross collar choke, this guide focuses on the Classic Grip, the fundamental version required for white belt stripe testing.

Following the instruction of Senior Professor Ed Shobe, we have broken down this proven strategy into actionable steps to ensure you maintain control and finish the submission with precision.

Step 1: Secure the High Mount

Before attacking the neck, you must secure your position. Start in a High Mount by shifting your weight upward. This positioning is critical because it eliminates the opponent’s ability to use an elbow escape, effectively trapping their arms and neutralizing their defense.

Watch: Senior Professor Ed Shobe Cross Collar Choke from Mount

Step 2: Control the Elbow and Set the First Grip

To prevent the opponent from defending their collar, you must first isolate an arm.

  • The Clamp: Use your thumb and middle finger to clamp down on the opponent’s elbow on the side you intend to attack.
  • The Slide: While holding the arm in place, slide your opposite hand deep into the collar.
  • The Classic Grip: In BJJ, we primarily use two grips—thumb in or thumb out. For this fundamental version, use the Classic Grip: four fingers deep inside the collar with your thumb holding the outside of the Gi.

Step 3: The Second Connection (The Under-Hook)

Once the first grip is established, release the elbow and reach across for the second connection.

  • The Path: A key technical point is to reach under the first arm, not over it.
  • Deep Placement: Apply the same Classic Grip principle on the opposite side, sliding your four fingers as deep as possible into the collar.

Step 4: Creating the Tension

With both connections secured, you need to eliminate any slack in the Gi.

  • The Pull: Turn your palms toward your face and pull upward, tightening the Gi against the opponent’s neck.

Step 5: Bracing and Pressure

As you prepare to finish, you must anticipate the opponent’s counter-attack.

  • The Brace: Move your head toward the opposite side you are attacking. This prevents the opponent from using an Upa (bridge) to roll you off; your head acts as a third post to maintain balance.
  • The Finish: Lean your body weight into the opponent and roll your wrists back—like revving a motorcycle. This creates maximum pressure on the carotid arteries, eliminating oxygen flow and forcing the tap.

Ready to Test Your Skills?

Mastering the Cross Collar Choke is a rite of passage for every white belt at Legacy BJJ. If you are preparing for your next stripe test or simply want to sharpen your finishing mechanics, follow the steps below:

Your 3-Step Action Plan:

  • Sign the Waiver: New to the mats? Complete our Digital Waiver before your first class.
  • Check the Schedule: View our Official Class Schedule to join our next Fundamentals session.
  • Visit the Gym: Bring your clean white Gi and get ready to train with the best community in Omaha.

📧 Email Us: matt@legacybjjomaha.com

📞 Call/Text: (402) 651-7721

Join the Community Online:

Follow us for daily technique clips, student highlights, and gym updates: