Issue 139

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 was Team Nogueira’s wrestling guru on The Ultimate Fighter. He and RFA 135lb champion Pedro Munhoz present THFE’s wrestling techniques for MMA.

Foot Sweep To Side Control

1: Kenny (right) has Pedro’s leg secured at the ankle in a standing single-leg position.

2. Kenny lifts Pedro’s leg high forcing Pedro to start hopping to keep his balance.

3: As Pedro is hopping, Kenny lifts the leg higher and sweeps Pedro’s foot with his right foot.

4. Kenny sweeps Pedro’s foot as high as he can and returns his foot back ready to control Pedro as he falls.

5. When Pedro lands, Kenny is always on both feet. Kenny still has Pedro’s leg secure. Kenny can look to finish with ankle locks, heel hooks and so on, or opt to take dominant position.

6. Kenny transitions to side control leaving his arm between Pedro’s legs, preventing him from recovering guard. Kenny’s right hand slips under Pedro’s head.

7. After Kenny secures his base position with his knees tight to Pedro’s side he locks his hands looking to transition to his next position.