Shin Removal to Pass represents a critical defensive technique executed when caught in gogoplata control from the top position. This escape addresses one of the most technically challenging submission positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where the opponent has threaded their shin across your throat while securing their foot behind your head. The technique requires methodical extraction of your head from the closed loop system created by the shin-across-throat configuration.
The strategic importance of this escape lies in understanding that conventional pulling or posturing attempts fail against a properly established gogoplata. The foot-behind-head configuration creates a closed system where backward movement tightens rather than loosens the choke. Therefore, systematic shin removal requires changing angles and addressing the leg mechanics rather than fighting against the submission structure.
This technique is particularly valuable because gogoplata attacks have become increasingly prevalent in modern competition, especially among flexible guard players utilizing rubber guard systems. Developing reliable shin removal mechanics provides essential defensive coverage against these specialized attacks while also opening pathways to dominant passing positions. The pass completion to side control transforms a defensive emergency into an offensive opportunity, making this a high-value skill for competitive practitioners.
From Position: Gogoplata Control (Top)
Key Attacking Principles
What are the key principles for executing Shin Removal to Pass?
- Address the foot-behind-head configuration before attempting shin extraction to prevent immediate re-establishment
- Use lateral head movement rather than pulling straight backward to change the angle of shin pressure
- Maintain hand control on opponent’s hips to prevent hip elevation that increases submission pressure
- Create breathing space first by turning chin toward the attacking leg before initiating full escape
- Time extraction attempts when opponent adjusts position or attempts to tighten the submission
- Complete the pass immediately after extraction to prevent guard recovery and establish dominant position
Prerequisites
What do you need before attempting Shin Removal to Pass?
- Recognition that you are caught in gogoplata control with shin across throat
- Hands positioned to control opponent’s hips rather than grabbing at the choking leg
- Base maintained with at least one hand posted despite compromised posture
- Breathing space created through chin positioning to allow systematic escape rather than panic response
Execution Steps
How do you execute Shin Removal to Pass step by step?
- Create breathing space: Turn your chin slightly toward the attacking shin to reduce direct trachea compression. This buys time by shifting pressure from airway to the side of your neck, allowing clearer thinking for systematic escape execution.
- Control opponent’s hips: Place both hands on opponent’s hips and press downward to prevent hip elevation. Elevated hips maintain the perpendicular shin angle that creates maximum compression. Dropping their hips reduces submission effectiveness significantly.
- Address foot position: Use one hand to find and control opponent’s foot that is secured behind your head. Push the foot upward and away from your head rather than pulling at the shin directly. The foot is the anchor point of the submission structure.
- Lateral head extraction: Move your head laterally toward the side opposite the choking leg while maintaining foot control. Do not pull straight backward. The lateral movement changes the angle and allows your head to slip out from under the shin pressure.
- Clear the leg: As your head extracts, use your shoulder and arm to push opponent’s leg completely off your neck and down toward their opposite hip. Pin the leg to prevent re-establishment of the gogoplata position.
- Complete the pass: Drive immediately into side control by establishing chest-to-chest contact perpendicular to opponent’s torso. Secure crossface control with your near arm and block the far hip with your other hand to prevent guard recovery.
Possible Outcomes
| Result | Position | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Success | Side Control | 65% |
| Failure | Gogoplata Control | 25% |
| Counter | Closed Guard | 10% |
Opponent Counters
How might your opponent counter Shin Removal to Pass?
- Opponent pulls foot deeper behind head when you attempt to control it, tightening the submission (Effectiveness: High) - Your Response: Maintain hip pressure and wait for opportunity; if they focus on deepening the foot they often drop hip elevation which creates your extraction window → Leads to Gogoplata Control
- Opponent transitions to triangle as you extract your head by switching leg configuration (Effectiveness: Medium) - Your Response: Keep your extracted shoulder high and immediately posture when head clears; do not allow them to lock the triangle by keeping your arm inside their legs → Leads to Closed Guard
- Opponent releases gogoplata and recovers to closed guard when they feel escape imminent (Effectiveness: Low) - Your Response: This is acceptable as closed guard is far safer than gogoplata; maintain posture and work standard guard passing sequences → Leads to Closed Guard
Safety Considerations
What are the safety concerns for Shin Removal to Pass?
When training this escape, establish clear communication protocols with training partners. The gogoplata creates direct airway compression that can become dangerous quickly. Always tap early when training the submission and ensure the person in bottom position understands to release immediately when tap is felt. Progress resistance levels gradually - the timing and mechanics should be solid before attempting against full resistance. Avoid training this technique when fatigued as poor technique under pressure can result in neck strain or injury. If you feel sharp pain rather than pressure, tap immediately and reassess technique.