The flying triangle choke is one of the most electrifying submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that has the potential to force a tap in seconds. Unlike the traditional triangle choke from guard, this technique allows you to launch into the submission from a standing position, catching your opponent off guard.
In a NAGA competition, pulling off a flying triangle not only secures the submission win but also earns points for a successful guard pull and submission attempt if the finish doesn’t happen right away.
This submission is effective in both gi and no-gi grappling, particularly in the former, where the grips allow extra control before initiating the jump. Yes, it’s a flashy move, but the flying triangle is also a legitimate fight-ending technique used at the highest levels of competition. Just ask Edwin Najmi, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Rômulo Barral, who is renowned for his mastery of the flying triangle.
How Does it Work
This choke works by cutting off blood flow to the brain by trapping one arm inside your legs and applying pressure to the carotid arteries on either side of the neck.
The technique begins with a jump, launching your legs around the opponent’s head and arm. It’s important to enter smoothly and secure your legs immediately by locking your ankles to prevent them from escaping. Once airborne, you form the triangle shape, tucking one foot behind the opposite knee while the other leg stays over the opponent’s shoulder. Then, pull the opponent’s head down while squeezing your knees together to tighten the choke.
To finish the submission, maintain downward pressure on the head while elevating your hips. If applied correctly, the choke works within seconds. A trained opponent will recognize the danger and tap early, but if they hesitate, the restricted blood flow will force them to go unconscious.
Key Principles Behind the Flying Triangle Choke
The best time to launch is when your opponent is already moving into you, like during a grip exchange or when they’re pulling back. You’re not forcing the jump; you’re using their momentum to elevate and wrap your legs. That’s why high-level guys like Edwin Najmi bait with a snap-down or posture break: when the opponent reacts, boom, the window opens.
Before taking flight, win the grip battle. Whether it’s a collar grip, wrist control, or an overhook, solid grips give you a stable launch point. Without them, you’re just jumping into space, asking to get countered.
Once airborne, it’s all about posture and leverage. Keep your hips high and chest forward to land in a dominant position, ready to tighten the choke.
The Set up
The flying triangle can come from anywhere, but it’s all about recognizing the right moment. Here are some good openings:
- Classic setups start with strong grips such as the collar grip (gi) or collar tie (no-gi). The best time to jump is when your opponent is slightly extended as it’s harder for them to defend.
- A slick way to hit the flying triangle is off a stuffed takedown. If they sprawl hard on your single or double-leg, their head and shoulders should drop, giving you the perfect opening to launch before they recover.
- Judo-style throws can set this up, too. If they overcommit to a hip throw or reap and miss, they lose stability for a moment.
- Fast exchanges leave gaps. If your opponent is resetting after a missed pass or sweep, they might extend their arms instinctively. That’s your green light to explode into the triangle before they realize what’s happening.
- You can also launch the flying triangle from guard, too. Whether from closed guard, spider guard, or De La Riva, the key is creating the right angle to pop up into position.
- If your opponent stands inside your guard, they’re giving you an opening. Secure wrist control, elevate your hips fast and jump before they posture up.
- Advanced fighters chain the flying triangle with sweeps. If your opponent stops a sweep by posting their arm or extends a frame during your pass, they’re practically handing you the setup.
Flying Triangle Choke Variations
This adaptable submission has variations that change grip placement, control, and finishing mechanics. While the standard version relies on locking a figure-four with the legs and breaking posture, these variations provide different approaches to applying the choke effectively in different scenarios.
The “D’Arce” Variation
This version incorporates elements of the D’Arce choke, modifying grip placement and the choking mechanism to create a hybrid attack. Instead of immediately locking the triangle with the legs, the practitioner threads an arm deep under the opponent’s neck and over their trapped arm, similar to a D’Arce setup.
The No-Gi Flying Triangle
In no-gi grappling, the lack of collar grips forces adaptations to the traditional flying triangle setup. Instead of using lapel grips to control the opponent’s posture, practitioners must rely on wrist control, overhooks, or collar ties.
How to Escape
Getting caught in a flying triangle? You’ve got to act fast and smart. Here’s how to survive and escape:
Early Recognition & Posture Up
The second you see it coming, straighten your back and look up. This keeps space between your neck and their legs, making it harder for them to lock the choke.
Control the Hips
Once they clamp down, put your hands on their hips and drive down. This stops them from adjusting and tightening the choke.
Shoulder Pressure & Head Positioning
Press your trapped-side shoulder into their stomach while turning your head toward your free shoulder. This relieves pressure on your neck and arteries.
Make Space & Adjust the Angle
Push against their knee with your free hand while angling your body toward the side of your trapped arm. This helps loosen their grip and opens up escape routes.
Stack & Pass
Drive forward, stacking them onto their shoulders. This weakens their leverage. Once stacked, work to pass their guard while keeping the pressure on.
Know When to Tap
If the choke is fully locked and you’re running out of options, tapping is the smart move. No shame in living to fight another round.
How to Identify When the Opponent is About to Tap
- Facial expressions such as grimacing, clenched teeth, or a look of panic.
- Sudden jerky movements, frantic hand motions, or a hand hovering near your leg indicate they are considering tapping.
- Shallow, rapid breaths or holding their breath suggest they are struggling with the choke’s pressure.
- A shift from tense resistance to sudden slackness can mean they are either about to tap or may be losing consciousness.
Drills to Improve Your Technique
Nailing this submission requires developing explosiveness and precise, controlled movements. Incorporate the following into your BJJ training so you can launch cleanly, lock it up fast, and finish strong:
Dynamic movement drills focus on building the speed and agility needed to execute the technique effectively. These include ladders drills, plyos, and kettlebell swings to help imrpovide your explosiveness and coordination.
Grip fighting drills teach you how to maintain control and manipulate your opponent’s posture. Wrist control and collar tie drills will help you learn how to force your opponent into exposing their arm while preventing them from posturing away.
Partner Drills build real-time reactions and smooth execution. Practice guard transitions and reaction drills so you can start to build confidence in your movements.
Mastering the Flying Triangle Choke
The flying triangle isn’t just for highlight reels. It’s a legit, high-level submission that can end fights fast. When done right, it catches opponents off guard and can force a tap in seconds. But pulling it off requires timing, grip control, and reading your opponent’s reactions.
It doesn’t matter if you’re channeling submission artists like Edwin Najmi or just looking to level up. You need to dial in the fundamentals. Do that, and you’ll start hitting the flying triangle with confidence. Drilling dynamic entries, sharpening your grip game, and recognizing the perfect opening will turn this flashy move into a real weapon.