Ezekiel Choke

The Ezekiel choke (sode-guruma-jime) is a submission where the attacker uses the sleeve of their own gi (or their fist in no-gi) to choke the opponent by threading one hand behind the head and driving the other forearm or fist into the throat. Named after Brazilian judoka Ezequiel Paraguassu, who famously used it to submit BJJ practitioners while training on the ground, it is one of the few chokes that can be effectively applied from inside the opponent's guard — a position where most attacks are difficult.

The Ezekiel choke is legal at all belt levels and age divisions in gi competition across IBJJF, NAGA, AGF, JJWL, and Grappling Industries. The no-gi version (using the fist against the throat) is also legal in most organizations, though some refs may interpret aggressive fist pressure as a throat strike if applied too explosively. In competition, the Ezekiel from mount is a high-percentage surprise attack — many competitors focus on defending the cross collar choke from mount and leave themselves vulnerable to the Ezekiel.

For youth competitors, the gi version of the Ezekiel is safe and legal. The sleeve provides a smooth surface and the choke builds gradually. Coaches often teach it as a secondary mount attack after the cross collar choke. The no-gi version requires more care in youth divisions, as the fist-to-throat mechanic can be uncomfortable and some referees may pause the match to assess. Overall, the Ezekiel is an effective and legal option for competitors of all ages in gi competition.