How to Do the Wristlock from Armbar Defense in BJJ
When the opponent defends an armbar by clasping their hands together, the wristlock from armbar defense becomes available. Instead of trying to break the grip for the armbar, you redirect the attack to their wrist by bending it over your thigh or hip. This creates a nasty chain where defending one submission leads directly to another.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 When your armbar is defended by clasped hands, maintain leg control
- 2 Identify which wrist is accessible and grip it firmly
- 3 Position their hand against your thigh or hip as a fulcrum
- 4 Push the back of their hand down while their forearm is braced
- 5 The wristlock forces them to release the clasp or tap
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Releasing the armbar position to focus solely on the wristlock
- ⚠️ Not having a proper fulcrum under the wrist for leverage
- ⚠️ Bending in the wrong direction against the joint
- ⚠️ Applying too much force too quickly risking injury
- ⚠️ Losing leg control during the transition to the wristlock
🔄 Variations
- → From triangle defense
- → From kimura defense
- → Against hitchhiker escape
- → With bicep control
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Release the clasp and hitchhike out of the armbar
- → Make a fist to strengthen the wrist
- → Pull the hand away from the fulcrum
- → Roll toward the attacker to change the angle
Track Your Wristlock from Armbar Defense Progress
Log every time you practice the Wristlock from Armbar Defense 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 Wristlock from Armbar Defense? ▼
The Wristlock from Armbar Defense 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.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Wristlock from Armbar Defense 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 Wristlock from Armbar Defense? ▼
The Wristlock from Armbar Defense is typically executed from closed guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.