The Rear Naked Choke, often called the RNC, is one of the most iconic and effective submissions in all of martial arts. Known for its ability to render opponents unconscious without causing lasting damage, the RNC has roots deep in traditional grappling systems. It’s most famously used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, and Japanese Jujutsu—but its application has evolved massively in modern MMA.
This choke is applied from the back control position, a dominant grappling position where the attacker secures their opponent from behind, wrapping their arms around the neck. What makes the RNC so effective is its blend of simplicity, control, and power.
The Rear Naked Choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu vs. in MMA
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the Rear Naked Choke is often taught early because of how high-percentage and safe it is. BJJ places a strong emphasis on technique, grip placement, and positional control. Practitioners are taught to take the back using hooks or body triangles, stay patient, and slowly work to sink the choke deep under the chin.
In MMA, the RNC becomes more dynamic and aggressive. Fighters must deal with striking, sweat, and the chaos of a real fight. In this context, back takes happen in scrambles, during transitions, or after rocking an opponent with punches. MMA fighters don’t always get perfect position, so they’ve adapted the choke to be quicker and more opportunistic, often using short gloves to sneak the hand under the chin and finish fast before opponents can defend.
How to properly utilize Rear Naked Choke
Establish back control
Secure your position with either both hooks in (feet placed around the opponent’s inner thighs) or a body triangle (crossing your legs around their torso and locking one ankle behind the opposite knee).
Control the opponent’s hands
Before going for the neck, control their hands or arms to prevent them from defending the choke early.
Sneak the choking arm under the chin
Slide one arm (usually your dominant) under their chin, aiming to place the bend of your elbow directly under their jawline or across the throat.
Grip your bicep
With your non-choking hand, grab your choking-side bicep. This forms the classic “figure-four” position.
Place your free hand behind their head
Tuck your free hand (the one not around the neck) behind their head to block escapes and tighten the choke.
Squeeze and arch
Squeeze your elbows together and slightly arch your back while pulling your opponent’s head forward. This compresses the carotid arteries and can cause a tap or a quick nap.
Why to utilize Rear Naked Choke
The RNC is one of the highest-percentage finishes in both grappling and MMA. It doesn’t rely on strength as much as positioning and timing, making it perfect for all body types. It’s safe, doesn’t require joint manipulation, and works well under pressure.
It’s also one of the few techniques that work reliably at all levels—from amateur to elite professional competition. If you take someone’s back and apply it properly, chances are high they’ll tap or go unconscious.
When to utilize Rear Naked Choke
The best time to go for an RNC is when you have full back control. This can happen after a takedown, during a scramble, or when an opponent gives up their back trying to get up. It’s also common after rocking someone with strikes—when they’re dazed and turn away to defend.
Timing and control are key. If you rush the choke before controlling their arms or position, it may slip and give them the chance to escape.
Jan Blachowicz performing a standing rear naked choke.
Note the positioning of his legs and the bending of his posture.
MMA fighters who do it the best
Several MMA legends are known for their deadly Rear Naked Chokes:
- Demian Maia:
A master of BJJ, he has finished many high-level fighters using clean, technical RNCs. - Khabib Nurmagomedov:
Known for his smothering pressure, he often finished opponents with the RNC after breaking them down with control and ground strikes. - Charles Oliveira:
UFC’s all-time submission leader, Oliveira mixes aggressive back takes with lightning-fast finishes. - BJ Penn:
His early UFC career was full of beautiful RNC finishes that showcased the power of clean grappling.
MMA fights where Rear Naked Choke is utilized and leads to a win
Demian Maia vs Carlos Condit (UFC on FOX 21): Maia took Condit’s back early and finished the fight with a smooth, textbook RNC in the first round.
Charles Oliveira vs Dustin Poirier (UFC 269): Oliveira survived early adversity, took Poirier’s back in the third round, and finished with a clean Rear Naked Choke to retain his lightweight belt.
BJ Penn vs Matt Hughes (UFC 46): One of the earliest examples of high-level BJJ in MMA, Penn stunned Hughes by taking his back and submitting him via RNC in the first round.
Nate Diaz vs Conor McGregor (UFC 196) In one of the most iconic upsets in UFC history, Nate Diaz weathered Conor McGregor’s early storm. Diaz sprawled against a desperate attempt, and transitioned to the back.
So, what is the rear naked choke?
The Rear Naked Choke is more than just a submission—it’s a symbol of control, precision, and martial arts mastery. Whether you’re training in BJJ or stepping into the cage, knowing how and when to apply it can make all the difference.