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Guillotine

Quick Introduction​

The guillotine is a front headlock choke that works standing, in guard, and during scrambles. One of the best takedown defenses — when someone shoots and exposes their neck, the guillotine is right there. Two-directional pressure (up + forward) finishes it.

Position Overview​

From: Standing, Closed Guard, scrambles | Finish: Forearm compression on throat/arteries

Standard Guillotine​

  1. Opponent lowers their head — catch it immediately
  2. Wrap choking arm deep around neck; hand reaches far hip
  3. Lock hands (gable grip or clasp under chin)
  4. Pull guard, preferably closed guard
  5. Arch back to lift their chin with forearm
  6. Drive hips forward into their throat simultaneously

Key detail: Timing technique. Catch the head the instant it drops. One second late and they posture or pass.

High Elbow (Arm-In)​

  1. Their arm is trapped inside with their head
  2. Elbow of choking arm points to ceiling
  3. Other arm connects to choking hand/wrist
  4. Extend body while squeezing — straighter = more pressure

Key detail: Keep that elbow pointed at the ceiling, not to the side.

Ten Finger (Simple)​

  1. Both hands interlaced behind their neck
  2. Pull up while driving hips forward
  3. Less technical but useful as emergency finish

Core Principles​

  1. Timing over everything — reaction to head exposure
  2. Two-directional pressure — UP with forearm + FORWARD with hips
  3. Depth matters — crook of elbow on throat, not wrist
  4. Pull guard — standing finishes are lower percentage
  5. Catch immediately — hesitation lets them escape

Common Mistakes​

MistakeFix
Arm too shallowGet deep — crook of elbow on throat
Pulling up onlyDrive hips forward simultaneously
HesitatingCatch the head the instant it drops
Standing finishPull guard for control

Next Steps​

  1. D'arce - Related front headlock choke from different angles
  2. Arm Triangle - When they defend by pushing your head
  3. Anaconda - Another front headlock variation