In a recent instructional video, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Craig Jones demonstrates an effective technique for escaping back mount without conceding bottom control, a crucial skill for MMA stars and grappling enthusiasts alike.
The technique, which Jones calls a “hip sit” back escape, addresses a common problem in traditional jiu-jitsu escapes, which often leave the practitioner in disadvantageous positions like mount or side control.
“Obviously in MMA you don’t want to end up on bottom,” Jones explains. “A lot of jiu-jitsu escapes involve you escaping back control to mount or even side control. We not only want to escape but we want to end up on top.”
Jones credits the technique to “foam star wrestling,” showing how to execute the move when an opponent has established back control with a right hook but no left hook. The key, according to Jones, is a movement that keeps the left shoulder forward while sitting on the opponent’s hook.
“The deeper the hook is here, the worse it is for [the opponent],” Jones notes. “If a long hook is bad for him, we want to force his hook long.”
The instructional continues with Jones demonstrating how to trap the opponent’s hook by grabbing their knee and pulling while switching hip position. This creates a disadvantageous situation for the opponent by controlling and punishing their position.
Jones also addresses situations involving “diagonal control,” where the opponent has a hook on one side while underhooking the opposite side, making rotational escapes difficult. He provides a solution for this scenario as well, showing a fast scissor motion that can be employed when the opponent momentarily opens their hands.
The beauty of the technique, as Jones explains, is the ability to reach and grab the opponent’s elbow when turning back in, making it difficult for them to maintain the back position.
This instructional offers valuable insights for practitioners looking to improve their defensive capabilities in grappling situations, showcasing Jones’ technical expertise and innovative approach to escaping one of the most dominant positions in combat sports.
