Issue 120

October 2014

Kenny Johnson is one of the most esteemed wrestling coaches in MMA. Noted for his work with BJ Penn, he’s also taught Anderson Silva and Lyoto Machida. He and UFC bantamweight Pedro Munhoz present the best wrestling techniques for MMA.

1. Kenny is behind Pedro with wrist control and his right hand in the crux of Pedro’s arm, squeezing tight. The same knee as the hand holding the wrist is in between Pedro’s legs and Kenny is putting a lot of pressure on Pedro, making him carry his weight on his left leg.

2. Kenny brings his left foot up and uses it to trap Pedro’s left heel. Kenny starts sitting to the mat to his left hip, keeping Pedro tight to him allowing no space.

3. Kenny sits to his left hip, keeping Pedro tight with his right knee pressuring forward up Pedro’s backside.

4. Kenny keeps the knee pressure forward up Pedro’s bum and rolls up to his base, continuing to control Pedro’s wrist. 

5. Kenny floats out to side control and looks to transition to the next position.  

PRO TIP

It is hugely important to fan your foot out of the middle of the legs and place it to the outside of the leg, keeping pressure forward and down. This will prevent possible guard recovery and submission options for your opponent.