Issue 115

June 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. Pedro (left) is in an orthodox stance, left leg foward, while Kenny is in southpaw, right leg forward. Pedro throws a jab towards Kenny’s face.

2. Kenny changes levels and shoots in on Pedro’s left leg.

3. Pedro steps into the jab allowing Kenny to close the distance quickly. Kenny gets his hands behind Pedro’s leg, staying away from his ribs in the process. NOTE: Kenny makes sure his head doesn’t go near Pedro’s ribs in case the Brazilian is able to lock on a submission.

4. With a firm hold of Pedro’s trapped leg, Kenny lifts it up to his chest and starts to stand and back up.

5. Kenny slides his arm back to Pedro’s ankle and raises Pedro’s leg high into his armpit, allowing him to transition to a finish.