Underhook from BJJ Takedowns

Underhook from BJJ Takedowns is a transition between related positions built around a handful of repeatable controls. No-gi clinch with the thrower having an underhook on one side and wrist control on the other side. Another common starting shape: the bottom player is in side control needing to get the inside frame using the knuckles, then convert the bridge into an underhook escape. It is worth attempting once underhook secured deeper than the partner's overhook. The ideas that hold it together are underhook, snap-to-turtle, and clinch.

The underhook chain is a sequence of small controls, not one athletic burst. Use the underhook hand to grip the back of the partner's neck or head. Pull the partner directly downward and forward extending their posture. Step back as you pull so the partner is forced to post their hands to avoid faceplanting. Stay attached to the back of the partner with the overhook side ready to spin to the back. Use two knuckles wedged across the neck to wedge the forearm in if the opponent is too tight for a clean frame. Walk the feet away first to make space, then bridge into the opponent at the peak of the bridge. Pump the underhook elbow up into the opponent's armpit and spiral toward belly-down. Connect the head to the opponent's stomach throughout to deny a snap-down counter. Partner pulled forward into turtle on hands and knees, thrower controlling the back of the head and shoulder ready to attack the back.

Later in the underhook, knuckle-frame, underhook-and-spiral, and head-connected tend to decide whether the position stays on track. Watch for these mistakes: Pulling sideways instead of straight down which lets the partner step out. Releasing the underhook to switch grips and giving up the dominant tie. Letting the head get pushed flat into the mat, allowing the snap-down. Swimming the elbow without the head connection, exposing the back. The high-percentage version of underhook from bjj takedowns is the one you can still chain when the next position is contested.