The Aoki Lock Top Position represents an advanced submission control state where the top practitioner has secured a leg-entangled shoulder lock position, named after Shinya Aoki’s signature application. This position combines elements of leg entanglement control with omoplata-style shoulder lock mechanics, creating a powerful finishing position that controls the opponent’s mobility while applying progressive pressure to the shoulder joint. The top player maintains dominant leverage through hip pressure and precise limb control, making this one of the most controlling submission positions in modern no-gi grappling.
From the top perspective, this position offers exceptional control over the opponent’s upper body rotation and shoulder mobility while simultaneously managing their leg positioning. The practitioner uses their legs to trap the opponent’s arm and shoulder complex while maintaining stable base through posted leg and applying rotational pressure to the shoulder joint. Success requires precise technical execution, strong positional awareness, and deep understanding of shoulder lock mechanics and safety protocols.
The Aoki Lock top position is particularly effective in no-gi competition where the absence of gi grips makes traditional shoulder lock escapes more difficult. It commonly arises from turtle attacks, front headlock positions, or guard passing sequences where the opponent’s arm becomes isolated. Understanding proper entry mechanics, pressure application protocols, and transition options is essential for high-level execution. The position serves as a hub for multiple offensive paths including direct submission finish, back control advancement, truck system entry, and crucifix capture.
Position Definition
- Top player’s legs are entangled with opponent’s trapped arm with thigh positioned over shoulder and shin controlling upper arm
- Opponent is typically on side or stomach with trapped shoulder isolated and unable to rotate freely
- Top player maintains base through free leg posted on mat creating stable platform for shoulder pressure application
- Hip pressure is directed downward and forward onto opponent’s shoulder joint creating rotational stress on shoulder capsule
- Opponent’s trapped arm is extended and isolated between top player’s legs with elbow pointing away from body
- Top player’s hands control opponent’s hips or far-side limbs preventing rotation and escape angles
Prerequisites
- Successful entry from front headlock, turtle, or guard passing position with arm isolated
- Control of opponent’s shoulder with legs positioned for entanglement
- Opponent’s shoulder trapped with limited rotation capability
- Base established through posting leg and hip positioning
- Understanding of shoulder lock mechanics and progressive pressure application protocols
Key Offensive Principles
- Maintain constant hip pressure directed into opponent’s shoulder to prevent rotation and create submission threat
- Control opponent’s trapped arm angle with legs keeping elbow pointed away from their body
- Post free leg strongly to create stable base and prevent opponent from rolling through position
- Apply pressure gradually and progressively over 3-5 seconds minimum monitoring opponent’s tap signals carefully
- Control opponent’s hips with hands to prevent them from turning into pressure or creating escape angles
- Keep weight distributed through hips into opponent’s shoulder rather than relying on arm strength
- Maintain leg entanglement tightness to prevent arm extraction and position escape
Available Attacks
Aoki Lock Finish → Won by Submission
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 45%
- Intermediate: 60%
- Advanced: 75%
Transition to Back Control → Back Control
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 55%
- Intermediate: 70%
- Advanced: 85%
Transition to Truck → Truck
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 50%
- Intermediate: 65%
- Advanced: 80%
Transition to Crucifix → Crucifix
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 40%
- Intermediate: 55%
- Advanced: 70%
Kimura Switch → Kimura Control
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 35%
- Intermediate: 50%
- Advanced: 65%
Transition to North-South → North-South
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 60%
- Intermediate: 75%
- Advanced: 85%
Decision Making from This Position
If opponent attempts to roll forward through the position:
- Execute Follow to Back Control → Back Control (Probability: 70%)
- Execute Maintain Aoki Lock → Aoki Lock (Probability: 25%)
If opponent turns away or creates hip distance:
- Execute Truck Entry → Truck (Probability: 65%)
- Execute Follow to Back → Back Control (Probability: 30%)
If opponent exposes far arm while defending:
- Execute Crucifix Transition → Crucifix (Probability: 60%)
- Execute Kimura Switch → Kimura Control (Probability: 35%)
If opponent’s shoulder is fully controlled with no escape attempts:
- Execute Finish Aoki Lock → Won by Submission (Probability: 75%)
- Execute Transition to Back → Back Control (Probability: 20%)
Optimal Submission Paths
Direct finish from control
Aoki Lock Top → Aoki Lock Finish
Back control to finish path
Aoki Lock Top → Back Control → Rear Naked Choke
Truck system path
Aoki Lock Top → Truck → Twister Finish
Crucifix control path
Aoki Lock Top → Crucifix → Choke from Crucifix
North-South pressure path
Aoki Lock Top → North-South → North-South Choke
Success Rates and Statistics
| Skill Level | Retention Rate | Advancement Probability | Submission Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 55% | 50% | 45% |
| Intermediate | 70% | 65% | 60% |
| Advanced | 85% | 80% | 75% |
Average Time in Position: 30-90 seconds before finish or transition