Arm Triangle: Choking Submission Using the Opponent's Own Arm
The arm triangle is a choking submission where a fighter traps the opponent's arm against their own neck, then applies pressure with their arms to cut off blood flow. It is one of the most effective submissions from top position and is frequently seen in underground fights that permit grappling. The choke works by compressing both sides of the neck using the opponent's own shoulder and the attacker's arms.
Origins and Usage
The arm triangle has roots in judo, where it is known as kata-gatame, and has been practiced in various forms across martial arts traditions for centuries. It gained mainstream recognition through mixed martial arts competition, where grapplers demonstrated its effectiveness against even well-conditioned fighters.
The technique is valued for its versatility, as it can be applied from side control, mount, or even while standing in a clinch. Fighters who specialize in top-position grappling often drill the arm triangle as a primary finishing tool.
In Underground Fighting
In underground fighting organizations where grappling is permitted, the arm triangle is a go-to submission for fighters with wrestling backgrounds. Without the structured referee oversight of sanctioned events, fighters must rely on their opponent to tap out or risk the choke being held until unconsciousness.
The lack of gloves in bare knuckle settings can actually make the arm triangle easier to secure, since bulky gloves often create a barrier between the choking arm and the neck. In no-rules environments, the arm triangle remains one of the cleaner submissions available.
Related Terms
- Guillotine -- Another front-facing choke submission
- Rear Naked Choke -- Back-position choking submission
- Triangle Choke -- Leg-based choke from guard position
See Also
- Ground and Pound -- Striking from top position, often sets up arm triangle
- Full Mount -- Dominant position from which the arm triangle can be applied