Brazilian jiu-jitsu superstar Gordon Ryan recently shared valuable insights on executing the D’arce submission, with none other than UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones serving as his demonstration partner.
In a video posted to social media, Ryan breaks down the key details of the D’arce submission, addressing common mistakes and offering tips for a more effective technique.
Ryan began by explaining the importance of breaking down an opponent in turtle position, cutting over their head and tucking their chin towards the near shoulder. He then highlighted a common mistake many grapplers make:
“The big mistake everyone makes is they try to shoot right to the D’arce from here and then he can bring his back to the floor and you end up in a pin but not with the D’arce,” Ryan explained.
To counter this, Ryan advised placing the ear against the opponent’s rear deltoid, preventing them from flattening out. This creates space and time to properly set up the choke without rushing.
“I take my ear and I just glue it here to his back so when he tries to pull back back to the floor it’s a very difficult thing,” he demonstrated.
Ryan then detailed the mechanics of locking up the D’arce, emphasizing the importance of hand placement near the shoulder blades and retracting the elbow upwards for a tight finish. He also stressed forming a lower body connection, whether by stepping over the leg or moving to mount.
The video concluded with Ryan playfully suggesting the technique “would never work on” Jones, before thanking his supporters and promoting his merchandise line.
This collaboration between two elite combat sports athletes offers fans a unique opportunity to learn high-level grappling techniques from some of the best in the business.
