Issue 135

December 2015

Use this simple defensive method to get yourself out of danger and back into striking range

Kenny Johnson with Pedro Munhoz

Premier MMA wrestling coach with students including BJ Penn, José Aldo and Anderson Silva

1 -Kenny and Pedro are in a neutral 50/50 clinch together and must improve their position to attack.

2 - Kenny looks to pummel his hand in between his body and Pedro’s underhook to get a dominant position.

3 - Kenny relieves some pressure by using a C-grip with the space between his thumb and fingers to cup Pedro’s bicep and control his arm.

4 - Kenny steps back and releases his underhook to free his right arm. He continues to push Pedro until his hips are clear and can’t be attacked for a takedown.

5 - Kenny raises his guard to defend himself from punches and kicks, because although he’s out of grappling danger, he’s now in Pedro’s striking range.

TOP TIPS

HIGH SCHOOL

Being locked in a clinch like this puts a non-wrestler in a vulnerable position to takedowns.

COLLEGE

Your opponent will probably be looking to pummel his hand too, so make sure he doesn’t get an underhook before you can.

OLYMPIAN

If your opponent is focused on keeping hold of you and drops their guard, hit them with a short hook on your way out of the clinch.

KENNY SAYS

“If you want even more advanced tips for MMA wrestling, pick up my Bolt Wrestling app for just $15.99 via the iTunes App Store.”