Issue 167

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 UFC Hall of Famer Matt Hughes present wrestling techniques for MMA.

SPRAWL WHEN SHOT IS FROM THE OUTSIDE

1. Anticipating the timing of southpaw Kenny’s jab, Matt is going to shoot a single-leg takedown from the outside.

2. As Kenny steps in and throws his jab, Matt lowers his level and shoots under the strike. 

3. Sensing the takedown, Kenny immediately blocks down, getting his lead hand in between himself and Matt. Ideally his forearm will hit Matt in the collarbone. Kenny then sprawls his legs back strongly, and uses his chest to put his weight on Matt’s head while squaring his hips.

4. Kenny continues to sprawl while controlling Matt’s arm with a grip above his elbow. Notice Kenny’s chin is tucked in the crux of Matt’s armpit. This protects Kenny’s neck and gives him another method of control. 

5. Here’s that position from a different angle. See how Kenny’s hand is steering Matt’s chin. This controls Matt’s head and body movements. The sprawl is complete when Matt’s hands are no longer touching Kenny’s legs, and Kenny’s shoulder is between Matt’s own shoulder blades, pressuring Matt backwards. Now Kenny’s looking to transition to his next position.

6. Here’s a finer detail for you. Kenny’s hand is only chin deep. He keeps his elbow on the side holding Matt’s chin tight and high so Matt can’t grab it. And remember, Kenny’s shoulder is between Matt’s shoulder blades pressuring Matt backwards.