Rear Naked Choke
Also known as RNC, mata leão, hadaka jime, rear strangle
A high-percentage rear strangle that uses an arm around the neck while the attacker controls the opponent from behind.
At a glance
- Family
- Submission
- Format
- Gi & no-gi
- Level
- Fundamental
- Connections
- 4 techniques
Concept
What it is
The rear naked choke is the signature submission from back control. The attack uses the choking arm and supporting hand as a compact frame around the neck while the rest of the body prevents the defender from turning to face the attacker.
Its reliability comes from position: the attacker can use both arms offensively while the defender must address the neck, hips, and shoulder line. Effective sequences prioritize hand fighting and back retention before tightening the finish.
Core mechanics
Key principles
- Control the shoulders and hips before exposing the neck.
- Win the hand fight one layer at a time.
- Keep the choking elbow aligned beneath the chin rather than pulling sideways.
- Use the head and chest to close escape space.
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
Back control
Trap or occupy the defensive hands and slide the choking arm into position.
Turtle breakdown
Insert a seatbelt and hooks before attacking the neck.
Scramble
Follow behind the shoulders and connect chest-to-back before the opponent turns.
Next actions
Short choke
Use a compact wrist or forearm finish when the full figure-four grip is unavailable.
Armbar
Transition around an arm when the defender commits both hands to the neck.
Mount
Follow a turning escape to retain dominant position.
Defensive priorities
Two-on-one
Control the choking hand before it reaches a finishing depth.
Shoulders to the mat
Move off the attacker's chest and rotate toward a facing position.
Chin and shoulder alignment
Use posture to buy time while clearing the attacking hand; the chin alone is not a reliable defense.
Competition connections
Athletes associated with Rear Naked Choke
Keep exploring
Related techniques
Position
Back Control
A dominant rear position that controls the opponent's hips and upper body while exposing high-percentage choking attacks.
Submission
Armbar
A straight armlock that controls the shoulder and wrist while using the hips as the fulcrum against the elbow.
Position
Mount
A dominant top position in which the attacker straddles the opponent's torso to control movement and isolate the arms or neck.
Submission
Guillotine Choke
A front-headlock submission family that wraps the opponent's neck and controls posture from standing, guard, or top position.
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.