How to Do the Brabo Choke in BJJ
The Brabo choke is a lapel-based head-and-arm choke applied from side control or half guard top. You feed the opponent's own lapel under their neck and connect it to create a powerful strangle. It is highly effective in gi competition because the lapel provides extraordinary grip security.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Feed the near-side lapel under the opponent's chin from side control
- 2 Thread your far arm under their neck and grab the lapel tail
- 3 Sprawl your hips away to tighten the choke
- 4 Keep your shoulder heavy on their chest to prevent escape
- 5 Squeeze by pulling the lapel while driving your shoulder forward
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not feeding the lapel deep enough under the chin
- ⚠️ Allowing the opponent to tuck their chin before the lapel is set
- ⚠️ Hips too high which releases pressure
- ⚠️ Forgetting to sprawl to finish the choke
- ⚠️ Losing side control while attempting the lapel feed
🔄 Variations
- → From half guard top
- → From knee on belly
- → Spinning Brabo entry
- → Near-side Brabo
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Frame on the hip and shrimp early
- → Chin tuck before lapel is fed
- → Turn into opponent
- → Strip the lapel grip
Track Your Brabo Choke Progress
Log every time you practice the Brabo Choke and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Submissions
View all →Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke (RNC) is one of the most high-percentage submissions in BJJ and MMA. Applied fr...
Triangle Choke
The triangle choke is a signature BJJ submission where you use your legs to form a triangle around y...
Guillotine Choke
The guillotine is a front headlock choke that can be applied standing or on the ground. It's particu...
Bow and Arrow Choke
The bow and arrow choke is one of the tightest collar chokes in BJJ. From back control, you use the ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Brabo Choke? ▼
The Brabo Choke 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 Brabo Choke 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 Brabo Choke? ▼
The Brabo Choke is typically executed from side control. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.