D'Arce Choke
Also known as D'Arce, Brabo choke, arm-triangle from front headlock
An arm-triangle variation threaded from the front headlock or side that wraps the neck and far arm with a figure-four grip.
At a glance
- Family
- Submission
- Format
- Gi & no-gi
- Level
- Intermediate
- Connections
- 4 techniques
Concept
What it is
The D'Arce threads an arm beneath the opponent's near arm and around the neck, then connects the hands near the far shoulder. It frequently appears when an opponent underhooks, turns to a side, or turtles with the elbow separated.
The attack can finish from top, guard, or rolling transitions. More importantly, the grip controls the shoulder line and can force the opponent into a sweep, back exposure, or front-headlock sequence.
Core mechanics
Key principles
- Thread deep enough that the wrist reaches beyond the neck.
- Keep the trapped shoulder compressed toward the neck.
- Control the opponent's ability to turn toward the open space.
- Use body position to close the angle before relying on arm strength.
System map
How it connects
Jiu-jitsu techniques work in sequences. These are common conceptual routes in, productive next steps, and the defensive priorities that shape the exchange.
Common entries
Front headlock
Thread beneath the near arm as the opponent posts an elbow away from the ribs.
Side control
Attack the far underhook while the defender turns onto a side.
Half guard
Wrap the head and arm when the bottom player reaches for an underhook.
Next actions
Guillotine
Change to a direct neck wrap if the arm slips free.
Back control
Move behind the shoulders when the defender turns away.
Top position
Use the grip to roll or flatten the opponent even without the finish.
Defensive priorities
Elbow connection
Keep the near elbow tight enough that the threading arm cannot pass deeply.
Face the attacker
Turn the shoulders toward the open side before the grip is locked.
Posture the neck
Create length through the spine while hand fighting the top arm.
Competition connections
Athletes associated with D'Arce Choke
Keep exploring
Related techniques
Submission
Guillotine Choke
A front-headlock submission family that wraps the opponent's neck and controls posture from standing, guard, or top position.
Submission
Arm-Triangle Choke
A head-and-arm strangle that traps one of the defender's shoulders against their neck while the attacker closes the opposite side.
Position
Side Control
A top pin across the opponent's torso that controls the shoulders and hips while opening routes to mount, back control, and submissions.
Position
Back Control
A dominant rear position that controls the opponent's hips and upper body while exposing high-percentage choking attacks.
Rules and reference sources
Rules evolve. The official organizer documents below are the source of truth for competition legality; the guide above explains the technique conceptually.