SAFETY: Paper Cutter Choke targets the Carotid arteries (bilateral compression). Risk: Loss of consciousness from carotid artery compression. Release immediately upon tap.
Position Variants
| From Position | Success Rate | Top Injury Risk | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuzure Kesa-Gatame | 62% | Loss of consciousness from carotid artery compression |
The Paper Cutter Choke is a highly effective blood choke executed primarily from side control, though it can also be applied from various transitional positions including north-south and turtle. The technique derives its name from the cutting motion of the choking arm across the opponent’s neck, similar to how paper is cut with a blade. This submission targets both carotid arteries simultaneously through a combination of the gi collar and the attacker’s forearm, creating a powerful constriction that leads to rapid unconsciousness if not defended. The Paper Cutter Choke is particularly dangerous because it can be applied with relatively little warning and often catches opponents by surprise during position transitions. The technique is valued for its mechanical efficiency—once the grip is secured and the angle is correct, very little strength is required to finish. This makes it an excellent submission for practitioners of all sizes and is especially effective against larger, stronger opponents who might resist other collar chokes. The choke is frequently taught as part of side control attack sequences and integrates seamlessly with other submissions like the cross collar choke and arm triangle.
Category: Choke Type: Blood Choke Target Area: Carotid arteries (bilateral compression) Success Rate: 62% (average across variants)
Safety Guide
Injury Risks:
| Injury | Severity | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Loss of consciousness from carotid artery compression | High | Immediate to 1-2 minutes if released promptly; potential neurological damage if held beyond tap |
| Trachea damage from improper angle or excessive force | High | 2-6 weeks for minor bruising; months for severe damage |
| Neck strain or cervical spine stress from head rotation | Medium | 1-3 weeks |
Application Speed: SLOW and progressive - 3-5 seconds minimum in training, allowing partner to recognize danger and tap
Tap Signals:
- Verbal tap (saying ‘tap’ or any verbal distress)
- Physical hand tap on opponent or mat
- Physical foot tap on mat
- Any distress signal or unusual sound
- Loss of defensive hand fighting (possible unconsciousness)
Release Protocol:
- Immediately release the choking collar grip completely
- Remove your forearm from across the neck
- Allow opponent’s head to return to neutral position
- Check partner’s responsiveness verbally
- If unconscious, position partner on their side in recovery position and monitor breathing
- Never shake or move an unconscious partner roughly
Training Restrictions:
- Never apply this choke at competition speed in training
- Never jerk or spike the submission with sudden force
- Always ensure partner has both hands free to tap
- Do not practice on beginners who don’t understand blood chokes
- Never continue applying pressure after feeling partner go limp
- Avoid practicing when partner has neck or throat injuries
From Which Positions?
Match Outcome
Successful execution of Paper Cutter Choke leads to → Game Over
All submissions in BJJ ultimately converge to the same terminal state: the match ends when your opponent taps.