You’re on the bottom, but your Open Guard isn’t so good… Which shows, as you’re flat on your back and the opponent is gripping your pants! Their intent is obvious: they want to do a Toreando or some other guard pass, and then proceed to submit you.
But not all hope is lost yet. You still have a chance not only to defend, but to impose a quick – and surprising – submission on your own. The Helicopter Armbar!
Try out this setup by Pedro Ascencio. It will make your opponent rethink their life.
THE HELICOPTER ARMBAR SETUP
When the opponent grips your pants, it’s really important that you grab their sleeves in return – as well as that you post your feet on their hips. This is done in order to regain some control over them, as well as incapacitate them from turning your hips away from theirs.
Then, simultaneously pull their sleeves towards you and push away their hips. This will break their grips and get you set up for the attack.
While still pulling them with your grips, elevate and extend the opponent’s hips to make them airborne. Now you’re in the position for the Helicopter Armbar; to initiate it, simply pull with one side of your body and push with another one.
They’ll fall right into your Armbar – it’s your job now to finish the submission.
Watch the full demonstration and explanation by Pedro Ascencio here:
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