How to Do the Von Flue Choke in BJJ
The Von Flue choke is a counter to the guillotine when you pass to side control. Named after UFC fighter Jason Von Flue, you use shoulder pressure to choke them with their own arm.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 When they hold guillotine after you pass, stay calm
- 2 Establish side control with shoulder on their neck
- 3 Gable grip your hands under their far shoulder
- 4 Drive shoulder into their neck/jaw
- 5 Sprawl and apply maximum pressure
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Panicking and trying to escape guillotine
- ⚠️ Shoulder not on the neck
- ⚠️ Not sprawling enough
- ⚠️ Hands grip wrong position
- ⚠️ Not committing to the pressure
🔄 Variations
- → From half guard top
- → Modified grip variations
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Release the guillotine
- → Reguard before pressure sets
Track Your Von Flue Choke Progress
Log every time you practice the Von Flue 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 Von Flue Choke? ▼
The Von Flue Choke is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Von Flue Choke works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Von Flue Choke? ▼
The Von Flue 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.