How to Do the Crossface to Underhook in BJJ
The Crossface to Underhook is a transitions technique that helps you advance from Side Control to Side Control with control. It is a reliable option for building pressure and creating the next attack.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Establish your grips before committing to the movement
- 2 Keep your hips aligned with the opponent to control their base
- 3 Use your frames to prevent counters during the transition
- 4 Commit to the finish once the position is secured
- 5 Reset if you lose posture or alignment
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Rushing the entry without control
- ⚠️ Leaving space that allows a scramble
- ⚠️ Overextending and losing balance
- ⚠️ Ignoring the opponent's frames
- ⚠️ Stopping halfway through the movement
🔄 Variations
- → Crossface to Underhook with collar control
- → Crossface to Underhook from no-gi grips
- → Crossface to Underhook to immediate follow-up
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Frame early and recover guard
- → Bridge and create space
- → Pummel for inside control
Track Your Crossface to Underhook Progress
Log every time you practice the Crossface to Underhook and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Transitions
View all →Arm Drag
The arm drag is a fundamental wrestling technique adapted for BJJ. By pulling your opponent's arm ac...
Berimbolo
The berimbolo is an advanced back take from De La Riva guard. You invert underneath your opponent to...
Mount to Back Take
Taking the back when your opponent turns away to escape mount. Follow their turn and secure hooks....
Side Control to Mount
Advancing from side control to mount by stepping or sliding over to the full mount position....
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Crossface to Underhook? ▼
The Crossface to Underhook is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Crossface to Underhook 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 Crossface to Underhook? ▼
The Crossface to Underhook 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.