Cross Collar Choke

The cross collar choke is a gi-specific submission where the attacker grips deep into the opponent's collar on both sides, crossing the wrists, and squeezes inward to compress the carotid arteries. It can be applied from mount, closed guard, and even standing. The technique relies entirely on the gi collar for leverage, making it one of the defining submissions of gi-only competition. Variations include the palm-up/palm-down grip and the deep cross choke from mount popularized by Roger Gracie.

The cross collar choke is legal at all belt levels and all age divisions in every organization that hosts gi competition, including IBJJF, NAGA, AGF, JJWL, and Grappling Industries. Because it is a pure blood choke with no cranking or twisting involved, it is considered one of the safest submissions in competition. The technique is fundamental to gi BJJ and is typically one of the first submissions taught alongside the armbar and americana.

For youth competitors, the cross collar choke is a staple technique. It teaches grip fighting, collar control, and the mechanics of blood chokes in a safe, controlled manner. The choke builds gradually, giving the defending athlete plenty of time to either escape or tap. At youth tournaments, the cross collar from mount is one of the most common submission finishes. Parents should note that this technique is only available in gi (kimono) competition — in no-gi events, there is no collar to grip.