Fighters Only

Issue 028

November -0001

Double underhooks (1)

1. Once you have achieved double underhooks there are two basic options for grips that will allow you to successfully exploit your dominant position. Here Pete has elected to grip high on the neck. Notice how Pete has his elbows lifted high to counter the ‘mental patient’ defence (see below), his head is tucked in tight and he has a central penetration step, loading Richie on to his hips. From here Pete can execute lateral twists, footsweeps, inside trips or go low and hit a bear hug or a leg tackle.

2. Close up of the grip. The best way to grip the neck is the S-grip, or clamps. The hands are reversed and fingers gripped tight together.

Double underhooks (2)

1. The bear hug – here Pete has elected to go low. He level changes from the legs, taking a split squat. Pete’s forehead is driving in to the sternum, and he has captured the hips with a good grip. This combination has broken Richie’s posture and will make sagging or tackling him to the mat an easy proposition.

2. Close up on the grip. Here Pete has used a butcher’s grip, often referred to as the Gable grip. Although several acceptable variations of this grip exist, Pete has favoured a no thumbs grip for ease of transition. Note: When utilising double underhooks the key is to control the hips, so never grip around the back. Go high to the neck, or go low to the hips.

The mental patient

1. Richie has read Pete’s intentions, and powered down his overhooks as soon as Pete started pummelling both underhooks in. He punches both arms down simultaneously in a ‘bodybuilder flex’ type of motion, sending his hips back and shoulders down.

2. As Richie punches down Pete’s elbows have been brought together, totally neutralising the power of the underhook. From here Richie starts to wrap both of Pete’s arms with one of his arms to place Pete in the ‘straight jacket’