Submissions are the heartbeat of UFC’s grappling game, where technique triumphs over brute strength. From chokes to joint locks, these moves showcase the artistry of Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), wrestling, and sambo that define MMA’s ground game.
Mastering submissions requires precision, leverage, and timing, making them some of the most thrilling finishes in the octagon. Here’s a guide to the best UFC submission techniques, with examples and tips for aspiring grapplers.
The rear-naked choke (RNC) is the king of UFC submissions, accounting for over 20% of all submission finishes in UFC history. This choke, applied from the back, compresses the carotid arteries, forcing a tap or unconsciousness. Khabib Nurmagomedov’s RNC against Conor McGregor at UFC 229 in 2018 exemplified its dominance.
Khabib, with a 29-0 record, secured back control and locked the choke at 3:03 of the fourth round. To execute, wrap one arm under the opponent’s chin, grip your bicep with the other hand, and squeeze while tucking your head to avoid counters. Train RNC transitions from full mount or back takes for 10-15 minutes per session.
The guillotine choke, a front-facing choke, is a versatile weapon, especially for fighters like Nate Diaz. Diaz used it to submit McGregor at UFC 196 in 2016, capitalizing on a takedown attempt. With a 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes average, Diaz trapped McGregor’s neck and rolled to guard, forcing a tap at 4:12 of round two.
To apply, secure the neck with one arm, lock your hands, and pull upward while squeezing. Practice guillotines from standing and guard positions, focusing on hip elevation to increase pressure.
The armbar targets the elbow joint, hyperextending it for a quick tap. Ronda Rousey’s armbar against Miesha Tate at UFC 168 in 2013 showcased its brutality. Rousey, with an 80% submission rate, transitioned from side control to lock Tate’s arm at 0:58 of round three.
To execute, isolate the arm, swing your leg over the opponent’s face, and pull the arm while lifting your hips. Drill armbar entries from guard and mount, emphasizing wrist control to prevent escapes.
The triangle choke, a leg-based choke, is a BJJ staple. Demian Maia’s triangle against Rick Story at UFC 153 in 2012 highlighted its effectiveness. Maia, a BJJ black belt, trapped Story’s arm and neck with his legs, forcing a tap at 2:30 of round one.
To apply, pull the opponent’s head down, secure one arm inside your legs, and lock your ankle under your knee to form a triangle. Squeeze and angle your hips for maximum pressure. Practice triangle setups from closed guard for 10-minute rounds.
The D’Arce choke, a front-headlock submission, has risen in popularity. Tony Ferguson’s D’Arce against Kevin Holland at UFC 296 in 2023 was a masterclass. Ferguson, with a 2.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes average, locked the choke from a sprawl, finishing at 1:45 of round two.
To execute, thread your arm under the opponent’s neck and arm, locking it with your other hand, and squeeze while driving your shoulder into their neck. Train D’Arce entries from turtle position or sprawls.
These submissions require relentless drilling—aim for 100 reps per technique weekly—and live sparring to test setups. Join a BJJ or MMA gym, focus on positional control, and study fighters like Charles Oliveira, who holds the UFC record for most submission wins (16). Submissions are about patience and precision, turning the octagon into a canvas of technical mastery.
