How to Do the Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut in BJJ
The lapel-assisted knee cut uses the opponent's own lapel to pin their bottom leg while you execute the knee cut. By feeding the lapel under their leg and connecting it to your grip, you create an anchor that prevents any guard retention or re-guarding during the pass.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From top half guard, pull out the near-side lapel
- 2 Feed the lapel under their bottom leg and grab the tail on the other side
- 3 The lapel pins their leg to the mat
- 4 Execute the knee cut while the lapel holds the leg in place
- 5 Complete the pass without any possibility of reguard
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not feeding the lapel deep enough under the leg
- ⚠️ Losing the lapel grip during the knee cut
- ⚠️ Feeding the wrong lapel
- ⚠️ Not cutting the knee while the lapel is set
- ⚠️ Taking too long to feed the lapel giving time to defend
🔄 Variations
- → With belt grip
- → Lapel knee cut to back take
- → Against knee shield
- → Double lapel pin
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Prevent the lapel feed by controlling the hand
- → Strip the lapel before the cut
- → Frame and reguard before the pin
- → Underhook to prevent the knee cut
Track Your Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut Progress
Log every time you practice the Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut? ▼
The Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Can I do this technique without a gi? ▼
The Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut requires gi grips (collar, sleeve, or lapel) to execute properly. In no-gi, you would need to use alternative grips or different techniques.
How do I set up the Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut? ▼
The Lapel-Assisted Knee Cut is typically executed from half guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.