Issue 142

June 2016

Ensure you don’t get finished when you get caught in the crucifix position with this roll reversal 

Greg Jackson

The most in-demand coach in MMA demonstrates the best techniques for the cage, with help from UFC flyweight John Dodson

1 - John has Greg pinned in the crucifix position, where his arm is trapped between John’s legs, which are crossed.

2 - Greg grabs John’s left foot with his right hand, which he will use for leverage for a sleep.

3 - Greg swings his hips towards John’s legs and traps his right ankle with his left foot.

4 - Greg crosses his feet to trap John’s foot between his legs so he can control his position.

5 - Keeping a hold of John’s leg, Greg rolls back to his other hip to take John off the mat.

6 - Greg drives forward until John’s back is on the mat, then uncrosses his legs

7 - Greg kicks his left leg back to finish in side control so he can begin his own offense.

TOP TIPS

AMATEUR

It doesn’t take many strikes from the crucifix to stop a fight, so try this escape as soon as you’re caught in the position.

SEMI-PRO

The crucifix position is perfect for throwing ground ‘n’ pound because your opponent’s head is unprotected.

PROFESSIONAL

Fight for underhooks when you’re pinned in side control to avoid getting caught in the crucifix.

IN ACTION

It’s vital to escape from the crucifix. You can’t mount any offense, it’s difficult to defend yourself and you could suffer a slow TKO finish like BJ Penn did at Matt Hughes’ hands at UFC 63.