UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev submitted Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, and wrestling legend Cary Kolat has shed light on the clever “golf swing” takedown that helped seal the victory.
According to Kolat, the golf swing takedown, also referred to as a “swing of the ankle,” is a highly effective technique that involves using the ankle as a pivot point to take down an opponent. As Kolat explained, “When you’re doing this finish, when you’re trapped inside, just think of a golf swing. It starts high and we come low and then we go high again.”
In the case of Makhachev vs. Poirier, the Dagestani fighter expertly utilized the golf swing takedown to gain control of Poirier’s leg, eventually submitting him via arm-triangle choke in the fifth round. Kolat praised Makhachev’s execution, noting that the key to the move is the quick change of direction, which creates an opportunity to circle away from the opponent and gain a favorable position.
“As I do that, I’m going to take [the opponent’s] ankle and take it from a high position low,” Kolat explained. “And as I do that, I’m going to circle hard and run away from my opponent.” This rapid shift in momentum allows the attacker to dictate the pace of the fight and create openings for further attacks.
You don't see a lot of this takedown in MMA pic.twitter.com/9m4oCnVN73
— calfkicker (@calfkickercom) June 2, 2024
Makhachev’s victory marked his fifth consecutive win in the UFC, solidifying his position as one of the top lightweights in the world. His ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling has earned him a reputation as a formidable and well-rounded fighter.
Kolat, a renowned wrestling expert and coach, has spent years honing his skills in the grappling arts. His expertise in techniques like the golf swing takedown has helped countless fighters improve their ground game and achieve success in the world of mixed martial arts.
As the UFC continues to grow and evolve, innovative techniques like the golf swing takedown will remain crucial components of a fighter’s arsenal. Makhachev’s impressive performance at UFC 302 serves as a testament to the importance of grappling in modern MMA.
