Anaconda Choke

The anaconda choke is a front-head-and-arm choke where the attacker wraps one arm around the opponent’s neck and the other under their trapped arm. By rolling the opponent toward the trapped side while compressing the neck and carotid arteries, the choke generates a quick and efficient submission.

Anaconda chokes are versatile, often applied during scrambles, from front head control, or as a counter to sprawl attempts. Precision in arm placement and chest-to-neck pressure is critical to avoid giving the opponent space to escape. The rolling mechanics make it particularly dynamic, as the attacker uses both leverage and movement to finish the hold.

High-level practitioners often chain the anaconda into other submissions, such as guillotines or kimuras, if the initial attempt fails. Its effectiveness in MMA and no-gi competition has elevated its status as a high-percentage submission, particularly against opponents leaving their neck exposed during takedown attempts.