SAFETY: Tarikoplata targets the Shoulder joint and rotator cuff. Risk: Rotator cuff tear (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor). Release immediately upon tap.
Position Variants
| From Position | Success Rate | Top Injury Risk | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Closed Guard | 45% | Rotator cuff tear (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor) |
The Tarikoplata is an advanced shoulder lock submission that combines the mechanics of the omoplata with additional wrist control and torque. Named after Tarik Hopstock, this technique represents an evolution of the traditional omoplata position, adding a second lever through wrist manipulation to create a devastating shoulder attack. The submission works by trapping the opponent’s arm in an omoplata configuration while simultaneously controlling and twisting their wrist, creating a compound lock that attacks both the shoulder joint and rotator cuff. This technique is particularly effective when the opponent attempts to defend the traditional omoplata by posturing or rolling, as the added wrist control prevents these common escape routes. The Tarikoplata has gained significant traction in modern no-gi grappling and is a staple of innovative guard systems, particularly within the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu methodology. The submission requires excellent hip mobility, precise timing, and thorough understanding of omoplata mechanics before attempting the wrist control variation.
Category: Joint Lock Type: Shoulder Lock Target Area: Shoulder joint and rotator cuff Success Rate: 45% (average across variants)
Safety Guide
Injury Risks:
| Injury | Severity | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rotator cuff tear (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor) | High | 3-6 months with surgical intervention possible |
| Shoulder dislocation (glenohumeral joint) | High | 6-12 weeks, potential chronic instability |
| Wrist hyperextension and ligament damage | Medium | 2-6 weeks |
| Labrum tear (glenoid labrum) | CRITICAL | 4-6 months post-surgery, career-threatening |
Application Speed: EXTREMELY SLOW - 5-7 seconds minimum application time, never spike or jerk
Tap Signals:
- Verbal tap (primary)
- Physical hand tap on opponent or mat
- Physical foot tap on mat
- Any verbal distress signal
- Frantic movement or panic response
Release Protocol:
- Immediately release wrist grip upon tap signal
- Remove leg from over opponent’s shoulder smoothly
- Release hip pressure gradually
- Allow opponent to extract arm naturally without resistance
- Check for injury before continuing training
Training Restrictions:
- Never use competition speed in training
- Never spike or jerk the submission - apply progressive pressure only
- Always allow tap access - opponent must have free hand available
- Restrict to advanced practitioners only (minimum purple belt recommended)
- Avoid practicing on training partners with existing shoulder injuries
- Never combine with explosive movements or sudden adjustments
From Which Positions?
Match Outcome
Successful execution of Tarikoplata leads to → Game Over
All submissions in BJJ ultimately converge to the same terminal state: the match ends when your opponent taps.