In a technical analysis, renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert Rener Gracie has provided insights into Islam Makhachev‘s submission victory over Renato Moicano at UFC 311.
Gracie, speaking from Gracie University, broke down the intricacies of the D’Arce that secured Makhachev‘s win, while also offering potential defensive strategies for future opponents.
“Moicano comes in on one day’s notice. What a beast,”
Gracie explained.
“Islam goes to the front headlock and immediately ties this rope. Look at this. Shallow D’Arce. Tricep shoulder. Forearm right here. You don’t even need to go all the way.”
Makhachev‘s technique had caught the eye of quite a few BJJ enthusiasts who noticed that he doesn’t grab his own bicep on a D’Arce like most. This was previously noticed in a clip where Makhachev spars Demetrious Johnson. Johnson even described the experience as very different. He doesn’t squeeze using his arms, but by using his back and lats.
“I have the technique. I don’t go like right away here. I choke from my wrist, you know? I take the wrist and close it.” – Makhachev explained to Johnson.
According to Gracie‘s analysis, while Moicano attempted to defend by freeing his leg, the positioning of Makhachev‘s forearm across the artery proved decisive in securing the submission.
The BJJ expert outlined two potential counters to this technique. The first involves a rotational escape when the attacker is on their knees, while the second requires a bridging motion when the opponent has their body on the ground.
“The arm that’s trapped in the D’Arce has to pass between the attacker’s body and your head in order for you to have a chance of survival,”
Gracie detailed, highlighting the key principle behind both defensive strategies.
However, Gracie acknowledged that these counters might not guarantee success against someone of Makhachev‘s caliber, noting that Moicano was unable to implement these defenses due to the immediate pressure applied in the submission.
It’s interesting to see Rener Gracie resurface so quickly in light of the startling expose targeting him and his brother Ryron Gracie that went live yesterday.
Islam Makhachev submits Renato Moicano in the first round.😳 pic.twitter.com/esm0QMZafY
— VulFuru🗿 (@VulFuru47) January 19, 2025
