BJJ Graph

Ezekiel Choke

Jun 15, 202510 min read

Ezekiel Choke

bjjtransitionsubmissionchokesleeve_choke

Required Properties for State Machine

Core Identifiers

  • Submission ID: S307
  • Submission Name: Ezekiel Choke
  • Alternative Names: Sode Guruma Jime, Sleeve Wheel Constriction

State Machine Properties

Submission Properties

  • Success Probability: Beginner 50%, Intermediate 75%, Advanced 90% - core probability data
  • Execution Complexity: Low to Medium - technical difficulty assessment
  • Energy Cost: Low to Medium - physical demand of execution
  • Time Required: Short - duration of submission attempt
  • Risk Level: Low - chance of position loss if failed

Physical Requirements

  • Strength Requirements: Medium for grip and forearm compression
  • Flexibility Requirements: Low for body positioning
  • Coordination Requirements: Medium for precise grip and arm placement
  • Endurance Requirements: Low to Medium for sustained pressure during finish

State Machine Content Elements

Visual Execution Sequence

Detailed step-by-step description for clear movement sequence visualization:

From a dominant position like Mount, Side Control, or even a defensive position like Guard Bottom, you begin by securing head and neck control by wrapping one arm around the opponent’s head, ensuring your forearm is positioned across one side of their neck to target the carotid artery. With your other hand, insert it into the sleeve of the wrapping arm (in gi) about 3-4 inches deep, or create a tight C-grip with your thumb (in no-gi), placing this hand against the opposite side of their neck to form a scissor-like compression. Bring both arms together in a scissors motion to create initial compression, tightening the choke by driving the sleeve-inserted hand forward while pulling back with the neck-wrapping arm, maximizing pressure on the trachea and carotid arteries. Maintain head control to prevent defensive movement, adjusting the angle if necessary by tilting their head, and apply progressive compression through their defensive reactions until the opponent submits or loses consciousness due to restricted blood flow or airway pressure.

Template: “From Mount or Guard Bottom, wrap one arm around opponent’s head, forearm on neck. Insert other hand into sleeve or use C-grip, place on opposite neck side. Bring arms together in scissors motion, tighten by pushing and pulling. Maintain head control until submission.”

Execution Steps (Numbered Sequence)

  1. Setup Requirements: Establish position (Mount, Side Control, or Guard Bottom)
  2. Initial Movement: Wrap one arm around opponent’s head for neck control
  3. Opponent Response: Opponent may attempt to posture or hand fight
  4. Adaptation: Insert other hand into sleeve (gi) or create C-grip (no-gi)
  5. Positioning: Place forearm and hand on opposite sides of neck for compression
  6. Pressure Application: Bring arms together in scissors motion, push forward and pull back
  7. Completion: Maintain head control and apply progressive compression until submission

Key Technical Details

Critical elements that determine success:

  • Grip Requirements: Secure sleeve grip or tight C-grip for compression
  • Base/Foundation: Stable position for leverage, even from bottom
  • Timing Windows: Execute when opponent’s defensive awareness is low
  • Leverage Points: Scissors motion of arms for neck compression
  • Common Adjustments: Adjust head angle and arm pressure based on resistance

Success Modifiers

Factors that increase/decrease probability:

  • Setup Quality: Security of head control and grip placement (+/-20%)
  • Timing Precision: Executing before opponent defends posture (+/-15%)
  • Opponent Fatigue: Reduced defensive mobility over time (+/-5%)
  • Knowledge Test Performance: Understanding compression mechanics (+/-10%)
  • Positional Control: Effectiveness of maintaining head position (+/-10%)

Counter-Attack Analysis

Common Counters

Opponent responses with success rates:

  • Create Frame: Framing to create space and reduce pressure → Space Creation (Success Rate: 30%, Conditions: early reaction)
  • Chin Tuck: Tucking chin to protect neck → Defensive Posture (Success Rate: 25%, Conditions: quick adjustment)
  • Hand Fighting: Breaking grip or sleeve control → Grip Prevention (Success Rate: 20%, Conditions: strong grip defense)
  • Bridge and Roll: Bridging to disrupt position → Position Change (Success Rate: 15%, Conditions: significant leverage)
  • Arm Trap and Roll: Trapping arm to reverse position → Position Reversal (Success Rate: 10%, Conditions: quick anticipation)

Format: [[Counter Technique]] → [[Result State]] (Success Rate: X%, Conditions: [when applicable])

Decision Logic for Opponent Behavior

If [ezekiel choke setup] is not fully secured:
- Execute [[Create Frame]] (Probability: 30%)

Else if [neck exposure] can be minimized:
- Execute [[Chin Tuck]] (Probability: 25%)

Else if [grip strength] allows breaking control:
- Execute [[Hand Fighting]] (Probability: 20%)

Else if [body leverage] permits disruption:
- Execute [[Bridge and Roll]] (Probability: 15%)

Else [optimal submission execution]:
- Accept submission (Probability: Success Rate - Modifiers)

Defensive Considerations

Common Threats During Attempt

Primary risks while attempting this submission:

  • Grip Break: Opponent breaks sleeve or C-grip control → Grip Prevention (Threat Level: Medium)
  • Position Loss: Opponent escapes head control during setup → Position Change (Threat Level: Low)
  • Counter Attack: Opponent initiates bridge and roll to reverse → Position Reversal (Threat Level: Low)
  • Stalemate: Opponent tucks chin to stall choke → Defensive Posture (Threat Level: Medium)

Format: [[Threat Type]] → [[Resulting Position]] (Threat Level: X)

Defensive Strategies

Methods to mitigate threats:

  • Grip Maintenance: Secure sleeve or C-grip quickly to prevent breaks
  • Head Control: Maintain tight wrap around head to avoid escapes
  • Angle Adjustment: Adjust compression angle to counter chin tuck
  • Body Positioning: Use body weight to limit bridging opportunities
  • Adaptation Readiness: Be prepared to switch to other chokes if defended

Educational Content

Expert Insights

Commentary as if from recognized authorities:

  • John Danaher: “The Ezekiel Choke is a highly efficient submission with excellent mechanical properties. Precise placement of compression points against the neck structures is key. It’s a problem-solving submission from various positions.”
  • Gordon Ryan: “Though I focus on no-gi, the Ezekiel works in both contexts. I prioritize inescapable body positioning before applying the choke. This prevents common defensive counters through strategic control.”
  • Eddie Bravo: “I’ve adapted the Ezekiel for no-gi in the 10th Planet system. The modified grip without a sleeve is crucial. Focus on thumb placement and forearm pressure for proper compression angle.”

Each insight should focus on one key technical or strategic element.

Common Errors

For knowledge test generation:

  • Error: Insufficient sleeve insertion or weak C-grip

  • Why It Fails: Leads to loose grip and ineffective compression

  • Correction: Insert hand 3-4 inches into sleeve or ensure tight C-grip

  • Recognition: Compression feels weak despite arm positioning

  • Error: Poor forearm placement on neck

  • Why It Fails: Misses critical compression points on carotid arteries

  • Correction: Position forearm precisely across one side of neck

  • Recognition: Choke feels ineffective despite proper grip

  • Error: Inadequate head control during application

  • Why It Fails: Allows opponent to escape or reduce pressure

  • Correction: Maintain tight wrap around head to limit movement

  • Recognition: Opponent easily pulls head away during attempt

Timing Considerations

When to attempt this submission:

  • Optimal Conditions: When opponent’s defensive awareness is compromised
  • Avoid When: Opponent maintains strong posture or grip breaks
  • Setup Sequences: As a counter when opponent focuses on other defenses
  • Follow-up Windows: Must complete within 5-10 seconds to prevent defense or fatigue

Prerequisites

Requirements before attempting:

  • Technical Skills: Understanding of choke mechanics and grip configurations
  • Physical Preparation: Forearm strength for effective compression
  • Positional Knowledge: Control from Mount, Side Control, or Guard Bottom
  • Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced - adaptable across skill levels

Technical Assessment Elements

Knowledge Assessment Questions

5 technical questions with multiple choice answers:

  • Mechanical Understanding: “What creates the choking pressure in the Ezekiel Choke?”
  • Timing Recognition: “When is the optimal moment to initiate the Ezekiel Choke?”
  • Error Prevention: “What is the most common mistake in sleeve grip for this choke?”
  • Setup Requirements: “Which control is essential for the Ezekiel Choke?”
  • Adaptation: “How do you adjust if the opponent tucks their chin?”

Variants and Configurations

Different setups within the submission:

  • Standard Mounted Ezekiel: Classic application from Mount
  • Side Control Ezekiel: Applied from Side Control position
  • Bottom Ezekiel: Defensive application from bottom positions
  • No-Gi Ezekiel: Modified grip without sleeve for no-gi
  • Arm-In Ezekiel: Variation with opponent’s arm trapped inside

Training Progressions

Skill development pathway:

  • Grip Familiarization: Practice sleeve insertion or C-grip solo
  • Control Drilling: Work with partner on head and neck control
  • Compression Integration: Add scissors motion and arm pressure to setup
  • Positional Practice: Incorporate choke from various positions
  • Live Application: Use in sparring with focus on timing and adjustments

Audio & Narration Elements

Action Descriptions

Dynamic language for TTS narration:

  • Movement Verbs: Wrap, insert, position, bring, tighten, maintain, adjust
  • Spatial References: Head wrap, neck sides, sleeve grip, arm angle
  • Pressure Dynamics: Scissors compression, carotid pressure, trachea strain
  • Momentum Descriptions: Progressive choke increase, continuous control

Coaching Commentary

Real-time instruction and feedback:

  • Setup Cues: “Wrap your arm around their head for neck control”
  • Execution Guidance: “Insert hand into sleeve or use C-grip on opposite side”
  • Adjustment Prompts: “Tighten by pushing forward and pulling back with arms”
  • Completion Confirmation: “Maintain head control until they submit”

Technical Specifications

Control Mechanics

Scientific submission analysis:

  • Force Vectors: Scissors motion through arm compression on neck
  • Leverage Points: Forearm and hand as fulcrum for carotid/trachea pressure
  • Stability Factors: Head control for positional stability
  • Mobility Dynamics: Arm adjustment for dynamic compression
  • Energy Efficiency: Low to moderate energy use with high choke return

Success Factors

Elements that strengthen submission:

  • Grip Quality: Security of sleeve or C-grip control (+/-20%)
  • Forearm Placement: Precision of placement on neck (+/-15%)
  • Head Control: Effectiveness of limiting opponent movement (+/-15%)
  • Opponent Fatigue: Reduced defensive resistance over time (+/-5%)
  • Experience Level: Familiarity with choke mechanics (+/-10%)

Validation Checklist

Every submission file must include:

  • All required properties with specific values
  • Detailed visual execution sequence (minimum 4 sentences)
  • Complete execution steps list (minimum 7 steps)
  • Strategic advantages and common challenges
  • At least 3 high-probability counters with success rates
  • Expert insights from all three authorities
  • Minimum 3 common errors with corrections
  • 5 knowledge test questions with answers
  • Defensive considerations and strategies
  • Training progression pathway

Example Implementation

See Americana for a complete example implementing all standard requirements.

Notes for Developers

This standard ensures:

  • Consistent submission data for state machine implementation
  • Detailed control mechanics for realistic modeling
  • Rich content for comprehensive technical documentation
  • Educational value through expert analysis
  • Technical depth for authentic understanding
  • Structured counter analysis for complete coverage
  • Knowledge assessment integration
  • Training progression guidance

Updates to this standard should be reflected across all submission files to maintain consistency and educational value.

  • Baseball Bat Choke - Alternative choke with similar grip mechanics
  • Arm Triangle - Follow-up if Ezekiel is defended
  • Triangle Choke - Complementary choke from bottom positions
  • Cross Collar Choke - Secondary attack from Mount or Guard
  • Guillotine - Alternative if head control shifts

Historical Context

The Ezekiel Choke originated in Judo, where it’s known as Sode Guruma Jime (Sleeve Wheel Constriction). It gained its BJJ name from Brazilian judoka Ezequiel Paraguassu, who effectively used this choke against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners in the 1980s. Initially a surprise technique to BJJ players unfamiliar with this judo move, it has since become fully integrated into the BJJ technical arsenal, with variations developed for application from virtually any position, including defensive ones. This adaptive development exemplifies BJJ’s technical evolution, taking a traditional technique and expanding its application through innovative positional exploration.

Competition Applications

  • IBJJF Rules: Legal at all belt levels, scores as submission win
  • Strategic Use: High-percentage finish in both gi and no-gi formats
  • Gi/No-Gi Specificity: Effective in both with grip modifications
  • Tournament Impact: Often used as a surprise attack from various positions

Safety Considerations

  • Pressure Control: Apply compression gradually to avoid sudden neck damage
  • Partner Awareness: Monitor opponent’s response during application
  • Mat Space: Ensure adequate space for safe positioning
  • Release Timing: Release immediately upon tap to prevent injury
  • Neck Safety: Avoid excessive force beyond reasonable choke point

Submission Integration

Common Ezekiel Choke combinations:

Training Applications

  • Gi/No-Gi Specialization: Essential for competitors in both formats focusing on chokes
  • Competition Preparation: Strong submission for all tournament formats
  • Control Development: Builds understanding of sleeve and neck compression mechanics
  • Tactical Exploration: Encourages multi-position submission setups

Graph View

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