What is the Rear Naked Choke?

The Rear Naked Choke (RNC) is a highly effective grappling technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts. It is executed from an opponent's back and involves wrapping one's arm around the opponent's neck, with the forearm pressing against one side of the neck and the biceps against the other side. The hands are then clasped together to apply pressure and cut off the blood flow through the carotid arteries, typically resulting in unconsciousness if the choke is maintained.

This technique is prestigious because it works well against opponents regardless of their size, strength, and resistance. It can be applied with or without a gi, making it versatile for various grappling sports. Moreover, the Rear Naked Choke is considered one of the highest percentage submissions in grappling, as it effectively ends matches across all rule sets and body types due to its direct restriction of blood flow rather than relying on pain compliance 1.