Just a quick analysis of Merabs choke last night

This weekend, we saw Kevin Holland execute a flawless Anaconda choke. Let’s break down the key elements and variations that make this submission so effective. The Setup: A Free Takedown Holland’s setup began with a simple yet effective takedown. By catching a low kick and simultaneously throwing a punch, he created an opportunity for a “free takedown” – low energy cost, high reward. This highlights the advantage of the calf kick, which is harder to catch. Two Ways to Attack the Anaconda The transcript outlines two primary methods for attacking the Anaconda: 1. Grip First, Then Hip: This method is quick and good for transitions. However, it allows the opponent to more easily pull their elbow back and escape. 2. Hip First, Then Adjust Grip: By getting the opponent to their hip first and then adjusting the grip (palm-to-palm), you gain more control and can use your legs for leverage. Kevin Holland’s Unique Variation Holland showcased an interesting variation. Instead of rolling, he sat on his butt to bring his opponent to a hip. Crucially, he trapped his opponent’s bottom arm and legs. This made it incredibly difficult for his opponent to create space or walk away, leading to a quick tap. Key Takeaways • Low-cost takedowns can set up high-reward submissions. • Understanding different Anaconda attack methods allows for adaptability. • Trapping the bottom arm and legs significantly increases the effectiveness of the choke, as demonstrated by Holland. This is an interesting variation to add to your grappling arsenal. Play with it and see how you can incorporate these principles into your own game!

ONE 2 WATCH: Mansur Abdul-Malik’s Breakout Performance at UFC Fight Night His latest performance provided a masterclass in handling adversity, maximizing ground-and-pound effectiveness, and utilizing a great defensive strategic. • STAND BACK UP: One of the impressive aspects of Abdul-Malik’s performance was his immediate reaction to being taken down. Unlike many fighters who spend valuable time adjusting on the ground, Abdul-Malik showcased an almost instinctual ability to return to his feet. This skill not only neutralized his opponent’s grappling offense but also allowed him to dictate the fight on his own terms. This principle has my coach and mentor, Joakim Engberg really engaged. The mantra “STAND BACK UP” has long been a cornerstone of Engberg’s coaching philosophy, and Abdul-Malik’s execution of this principle was textbook. Each time he hit the mat, he refused to accept the position, using smart hip escapes, hand-fighting, and sheer determination to regain his footing. This level of defensive grappling is often the separator between top-tier talent and those stuck in the mid-tier of the division. • GROUND AND POUND WITH DAMAGE: Where Abdul-Malik truly separated himself from many of his peers was in his approach to ground-and-pound. Too often, fighters at this stage rely on frequent, less effective “rabbit punches” when they gain a dominant position. Instead, Abdul-Malik showcased a destructive intent behind every strike he threw. Each shot was calculated, thrown with full force, and aimed at breaking his opponent’s will rather than just scoring points. What makes this particularly noteworthy is that he applied this principle even in transitional positions—spots where many fighters hesitate, opting to establish control before striking. Abdul-Malik, however, recognized opportunities where others might see hesitation. Instead of merely securing position, he inflicted immediate damage, forcing his opponent into defensive mode rather than allowing them to work toward an escape.

Got this Russian triangle to work my latest fight:)

Just a short test video about creating hight on the cage from last weekends UFC 308