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The Hardest to Pull Off Submissions in MMA
MMA is a brutal sport where fighters are constantly battling not just for position but for control. When it comes to the submissions game, certain techniques require a high level of skill, timing, and precision. While submissions are often celebrated for their grace and effectiveness, some are notoriously difficult to execute. Here’s a look at some of the hardest-to-pull-off submissions in MMA.
1. The Flying Triangle
The flying triangle is a stunning submission that requires speed, precision, and explosive athleticism. To execute this move, a fighter needs to leap into the air, wrap their legs around their opponent’s neck, and lock in the triangle choke mid-flight. The timing and technique are incredibly difficult, especially since it requires the fighter to be in the perfect position while simultaneously dodging the opponent's attacks.
Famous Examples:
B.J. Penn has pulled off one of the most impressive flying triangles in MMA history, showcasing both the technique and athleticism needed to land this submission.
2. The Peruvian Necktie
A flashy submission that combines elements of a guillotine and a dart choke, the Peruvian necktie is an extremely difficult submission to pull off because it requires the fighter to trap their opponent’s neck and arm while still maintaining full control of their body. It’s often applied when an opponent tries to stand or scramble out of a takedown, leaving just a small window of opportunity for the submission artist to work.
Famous Example:
Carlos Condit used this technique against Dan Hardy in their fight at UFC 120, catching Hardy off guard and securing a submission victory.
3. The Gogoplata
The gogoplata is a unique submission where a fighter uses their shin to choke the opponent by trapping their neck under their shin while their legs are in a guard position. This submission is incredibly hard to execute because the fighter needs to have strong flexibility and control while maintaining the right angle to apply the choke. The angle can be tricky to get, especially when opponents are trying to defend and move around.
Famous Example:
Shinya Aoki, one of the most skilled submission specialists in MMA, has locked in this submission multiple times during his career, showing just how difficult but effective the gogoplata can be.
4. The Twister
While it may look like a simple neck crank at first glance, the twister is one of the most painful and effective submissions when applied correctly. This move involves twisting the opponent’s body into an uncomfortable position while maintaining control of their head and legs. It’s incredibly hard to pull off because it requires precise body positioning, control, and a fighter's ability to read their opponent’s movements.
Famous Example:
Chan Sung Jung, also known as "The Korean Zombie," made this submission famous in the UFC with his victory over Leonard Garcia. His ability to trap his opponent in this position was a sight to behold.
5. The Heel Hook
The heel hook is one of the most dangerous submissions in MMA, as it can cause severe damage to the knee if applied incorrectly or too long. While not as flashy as some of the other submissions on this list, the heel hook requires exceptional timing and control. It involves hyper-extending the knee by twisting the opponent’s foot. The difficulty lies in getting to the proper angle and preventing the opponent from escaping or defending. The risk of injury makes this submission especially feared.
Famous Example:
Ryan Hall, known for his submission game, has consistently used the heel hook to submit opponents in both the UFC and other organizations.
6. The Armbar from Guard
While the armbar is a common submission in MMA, the one performed from the guard position can be incredibly difficult to pull off against an opponent who is skilled at posture control and defending submissions. It requires a fighter to break their opponent’s posture and secure the arm with perfect timing and technique. A slight mistake can result in the submission being reversed, and the fighter being in a disadvantageous position.
Famous Example:
Ronda Rousey, a judo specialist, became synonymous with the armbar, having used this submission to dominate opponents in her UFC career.
7. The Kimura
While the Kimura may seem like a straightforward shoulder lock, it’s difficult to execute at the highest levels due to the necessary body control and positioning. The fighter needs to isolate their opponent's arm and rotate it behind their back, all while being aware of any potential counters or escapes. The Kimura is often used as both a submission and a control position in MMA, but it can be incredibly challenging to finish. It might be easy to get a white belt in a Kimura but blue belts and above know all too well how to defend this sub.
Famous Example:
Frank Mir used the Kimura to submit Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in their rematch at UFC 140, creating one of the most iconic moments in MMA submission history.
FIGHT.TV Breaks Down The Hardest to Pull Off Submissions
Submissions in MMA are an art form, requiring a mix of skill, timing, and body control. The hardest submissions to pull off aren’t just physically demanding but mentally taxing as well. Fighters who can execute these moves at the highest level not only prove their technical prowess but also their ability to control and break their opponents mentally. These submissions showcase the diversity and complexity of grappling within MMA, and while they’re difficult to land, the rewards for successfully pulling them off are immense.