Cross Collar Choke from Mount: Gi Choke Step by Step

The cross collar choke is one of the most famous gi submissions in jiu-jitsu. It looks simple, a pair of hands crossing at the neck, but the details are what turn a weak grab into a clean finish. From mount, you have the stability to build the grips with patience. This guide covers the setup, the mechanics and the safety rules you need.

When to attack the cross collar choke

Attack it when you are stable in mount and your partner is busy defending with their arms or trying to bridge. The choke needs a gi, because the lapels are your handles. It is an excellent follow-up after a successful sweep or pass, because you are already on top with control. If you are unsure about the top position, read our entry on mount.

If your partner defends by keeping both hands near their collar, do not fight the hands with strength. Start with a different grip or move to another attack, such as the americana, and come back to the choke when an opening appears.

Step by step: the cross collar choke

1. Settle into a stable mount with your knees tight, your hips low and your weight centered over your partner's chest.
2. Open your partner's collar with one hand. Slide your fingers inside, thumb inside, with your palm facing you, and grip deep near the back of the neck.
3. Insert your second hand across the first, again with the thumb inside and a deep grip on the opposite lapel.
4. Keep your elbows near your own ribs and slightly bend them so the grips stay deep.
5. Lower your chest and head toward the mat beside your partner's head to add weight.
6. Pull your elbows toward your hips and turn your wrists slightly to close the forearms on both sides of the neck. Finish slowly until your partner taps.

Key details that make it work

• The grip is deep. A shallow grip slips and does little.
• The first hand sets the lapel before the second hand crosses over it. The order matters.
• Keep your wrists straight and your elbows tight. Let your whole body do the work, not just your hands.
• Stay balanced in mount while grips are being set. If you lean too much, a bridge will tip you.
• Choose the timing. Set the first grip when your partner is not paying attention to it.
• Apply pressure slowly. Control is more important than speed.

How to drill it

Start by practicing the grips alone on a gi jacket hung from a hook or held by a partner. Feel how deep you can place your fingers and how the lapel moves. Next, drill the setup from mount with no resistance, then add a partner who defends with light hand fighting. Do not squeeze; simply practice the order of hands and the posture. Over many sessions, you will find that the choke becomes easier as your grips improve.

Repeat on both sides so that either hand can start. Finish all repetitions at half speed and stop the moment your partner taps or taps the mat.

Common mistakes and safety

A common mistake is grabbing the collar close to the front of the neck, where the grip cannot get deep. Another is using too much arm strength and not enough body position, which tires you out and gives the partner time to defend. Some students also jump their weight forward and lose mount. Be patient and keep your base.

Chokes are serious. They can put pressure on the neck, so always apply them gradually and release the moment your partner taps. Never snap or jerk, and never hold a choke after a tap. Do not practice chokes on kids unless your instructor allows it, and follow your academy's rules. Tell your instructor if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable. Learning with a qualified coach is the safest way to master this technique. For a reminder about the signal itself, see tap out.

Where to go from here

The cross collar choke blends well with other mount attacks. Combine it with the americana, or learn the rear naked choke if your partner turns to their stomach. If your partner escapes, guard retention and trap and roll will help you understand how they get away.

Ready to see the details in person? Book a free trial class at Renzo Gracie West Boca Raton and our coaches will help you build your grips. You can also learn about the adults program or read about gi versus no-gi to decide what to wear.