Issue 114

May 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

HIGH-CROTCH SINGLE/DOUBLE TO A DUMP

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1. Kenny (right) is looking to shoot a high-crotch single-leg on Pedro by lowering his level under a punch.

2. As Pedro commits to the jab, Kenny changes levels under the punch. 

3. Kenny penetrates deep through the single-leg. PRO TIP: Kenny’s head is up and tight to Pedro’s ribs with his back straight.

4. Kenny brings the trail leg and hand up as he starts to pressure Pedro with his head. Kenny will not lock his hands here.

5. Kenny drives into Pedro, lifting his leg and transferring Pedro’s weight to his back leg as he switches to a double. Pedro lowers his level and bases out so he can’t be lifted or driven to the mat.

PRO TIP: Kenny’s level is low, back is straight and his head is up and tight to the ribs and his right hand is trapping Pedro’s far knee. Always switch to the double as you are driving your opponent to their back leg so they cannot sprawl on you.

BLOCKED DOUBLE-LEG

6. Alternatively Kenny may drive into Pedro lifting his leg transferring Pedro’s weight to his back leg as before but Pedro blocks the switch to the double. Don’t let it deter you. Continue with the takedown as planned.

7. Simultaneously Kenny switches back to a single-leg and secures a tight grip on the leg mid-thigh with heavy shoulder pressure down. He then steps back with his left leg, pivoting on his right foot, causing Pedro to hop backwards in a circle taking Pedro off his balance. Kenny now changes levels and bows to the sensei.

8. Kenny drops Pedro to his back and finishes the move on his feet. Kenny looks to transition to the next position.