SAFETY: Rear Triangle Choke from Back Control targets the Carotid arteries and trachea. Risk: Carotid artery compression leading to loss of consciousness. Release immediately upon tap.
The Triangle Choke from Back Control represents an advanced finishing option that combines the control dominance of back position with the mechanical efficiency of the triangle. This submission emerges when the opponent begins defending the rear naked choke by protecting their neck, creating an opportunity to transition to a different strangling mechanism. Unlike the traditional front triangle from guard, the rear triangle utilizes the already-established back control framework, making it particularly effective when opponents successfully defend traditional back attacks.
This technique exemplifies the principle of submission chains and dilemma creation - as the opponent defends one attack, they inadvertently expose themselves to another. The rear triangle can be finished from various back control configurations including standard seat belt control, body triangle position, and even during transitions when losing back control. The choke functions through bilateral compression of the carotid arteries while simultaneously controlling the opponent’s posture and preventing escape.
The Triangle Choke from Back Control requires precise leg positioning, hip mobility, and understanding of angle creation. Success depends on maintaining back control throughout the transition, controlling one of the opponent’s arms inside the triangle, and applying proper finishing mechanics. This submission is particularly valuable in competition and no-gi scenarios where rear naked choke defenses are well-developed, providing an alternative finishing path that catches opponents by surprise.
From Position: Back Control (Top)
Key Attacking Principles
What are the key principles for executing Rear Triangle Choke from Back Control?
- Maintain back control dominance throughout the triangle transition - never sacrifice position for submission
- Control one arm inside the triangle while keeping the other arm isolated outside the configuration
- Create proper angle by shifting hips perpendicular to opponent’s spine rather than staying directly behind
- Apply squeeze from the legs while simultaneously pulling opponent’s head down to close the triangle
- Keep constant tension on the trapped arm to prevent escape and enhance the choke
- Use the body triangle leg configuration or standard back control hooks to maintain base during setup
- Finish by cutting the angle with your hips and squeezing knees together rather than relying solely on leg pressure
Prerequisites
What do you need before attempting Rear Triangle Choke from Back Control?
- Established back control with at least one hook in or body triangle secured
- Opponent defending neck with both hands or one arm blocking under the chin
- Sufficient hip mobility to throw leg over opponent’s shoulder while maintaining back control
- Control of at least one of opponent’s arms to prevent defensive framing
- Ability to create angle by shifting hips to one side of opponent’s body
- Enough space to maneuver leg between opponent’s arm and head
- Strong core control to maintain position during the transition phase
Execution Steps
How do you execute Rear Triangle Choke from Back Control step by step?
- Establish dominant back control position: Begin from standard back control with seat belt grip (one arm over shoulder, one under armpit) or body triangle. Ensure you have at least one hook in if not using body triangle. Your chest should be tight to opponent’s back with your head positioned to one side of their head. Maintain constant forward pressure to keep opponent defensive. (Timing: Hold stable position for 2-3 seconds before initiating)
- Attack rear naked choke to create defensive reaction: Slide your choking arm (typically the over-the-shoulder arm) toward opponent’s neck as if attempting a standard rear naked choke. This forces opponent to bring their hands up to defend their neck, either by grabbing your choking arm or blocking under their chin. This defensive reaction is essential to create the space needed for the triangle setup. (Timing: Apply for 3-5 seconds until strong defensive reaction)
- Trap one arm inside triangle configuration: As opponent defends the choke with both hands near their neck, use your choking arm to control one of their arms (typically the arm on the same side as your choking arm). Pull this arm across their body and keep it tight to their neck. This arm will become trapped inside the triangle. The opposite arm should remain outside and can be controlled with your other hand or simply isolated. (Timing: Execute smoothly over 2-3 seconds)
- Shift hips to create angle for leg insertion: This is the critical transition moment. Shift your hips away from the side where you’ll throw your leg (if attacking with right leg, shift hips left). Create approximately 45-90 degree angle with your body relative to opponent’s spine. If using body triangle, open it temporarily. If using hooks, remove the hook on the leg side you’ll use for the triangle while keeping the other hook or your other leg for base. (Timing: Controlled shift over 2-3 seconds while maintaining control)
- Thread leg over shoulder and lock triangle: Throw your top leg (the one on the side you’ve created space) over opponent’s shoulder on the same side, bringing your knee toward their opposite ear. Your shin should be across the back of their neck. Immediately bring your other leg up and lock your ankle in the knee pit of your top leg (standard triangle lock). Alternatively, lock ankle over ankle in figure-four configuration. Ensure opponent’s trapped arm and head are inside the triangle while other arm stays outside. (Timing: Quick but controlled insertion over 1-2 seconds)
- Secure grips and cut angle for finish: With triangle locked, grab your own shin or foot to reinforce the lock. Use your free hand to grab opponent’s trapped arm and pull it across their body, keeping it tight to their neck. Rotate your body further perpendicular to opponent (approaching 90 degrees), cutting the angle to their side. Squeeze your knees together while pulling down on their head/arm. The choke tightens as you cut the angle and compress. (Timing: Apply gradual pressure over 4-6 seconds minimum)
Possible Outcomes
| Result | Position | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Success | game-over | 60% |
| Failure | Back Control | 25% |
| Counter | Closed Guard | 15% |
Opponent Defenses
How might your opponent defend against Rear Triangle Choke from Back Control?
- Opponent postures up and extends their neck to prevent triangle lock completion (Effectiveness: Medium) - Your Response: Maintain control of the trapped arm and use it to pull opponent’s head down. Hook your free leg under their far hip or around their waist to prevent posture. If they successfully posture, transition to armbar on trapped arm or return to back control. → Leads to Back Control
- Opponent turns toward you to escape the triangle angle (Effectiveness: High) - Your Response: Follow their turn by rotating with them, maintaining the triangle lock. Use your free hand to control their far hip or shoulder to prevent full rotation. As they turn, the triangle may tighten naturally. Be prepared to transition to front triangle position if they fully turn. → Leads to Closed Guard
- Opponent pulls their trapped arm free from the triangle (Effectiveness: High) - Your Response: If arm escapes, immediately transition to standard rear naked choke or switch to attacking the other arm. Alternatively, maintain triangle on the head only and look for neck crank or transition to taking the back fully again. Never force a lost position - flow to the next attack. → Leads to Back Control
- Opponent grabs their own hands together (prayer defense) to prevent arm isolation (Effectiveness: Medium) - Your Response: Attack the rear naked choke more aggressively to force them to release the grip. Alternatively, work to peel one hand away using your choking arm. You can also transition to the triangle on just the head if you can create enough angle, though this is less effective. → Leads to Back Control