The Kimura submission hold is a popular technique in mixed martial arts (MMA). It is a joint lock that primarily targets the shoulder joint, but also affects the elbow joint to a lesser extent. The submission is named after Masahiko Kimura, a Japanese judoka who famously used it to defeat Helio Gracie, one of the founders of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ).
The Kimura is a versatile submission that can be executed from a variety of positions, including side control, mount, and guard. It involves isolating the opponent’s arm and applying pressure to the shoulder joint while controlling the wrist with both hands. When applied correctly, the submission can cause intense pain and discomfort, forcing the opponent to tap out or risk injury. Due to its effectiveness and relative ease of execution, many MMA fighters incorporate the Kimura into their arsenal of techniques.
Top Kimura Finishes in UFC History
History of the Kimura Submission
The Kimura submission is one of the most effective submission techniques in martial arts, and it has a rich history that spans several centuries. In this section, we will explore the origins of the Kimura submission and its early use in MMA.
Origins of the Kimura Submission
The exact inventor of the Kimura submission is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in catch wrestling. Catch wrestlers called the move the double wrist lock and claimed to have used the move since the 1800s. Judo founder Jigoro Kano borrowed from many different grappling arts, including catch wrestling, when creating Judo in the late 1800s. Kano incorporated the double wrist lock into Judo, where it became known as the “ude garami” or “arm entanglement.”
The Kimura submission was named after Masahiko Kimura, a Judo legend who defeated Helio Gracie, the founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in a famous match in 1951. Kimura used the arm entanglement to defeat Gracie, and the submission was later named after him.
Early Use in MMA
The Kimura submission has been used in MMA since the sport’s early days. In the early UFC events, Royce Gracie used the Kimura submission to defeat several opponents. Since then, the Kimura has become a staple submission in MMA and is used by fighters at all levels.
The Kimura submission is a highly effective submission that can be used for a variety of positions. It is particularly effective from the guard and side control positions. The submission involves locking up an opponent’s arm and applying pressure to the shoulder joint, which can cause the opponent to tap out or suffer injury.
In conclusion, the Kimura submission has a long and rich history that spans several centuries. Its origins can be traced back to catch wrestling and Judo, and it has been used in MMA since the sport’s early days. The Kimura submission is a highly effective submission that can be used from a variety of positions and is a valuable tool for any MMA fighter to have in their arsenal.
Technique of the Kimura Submission
The Kimura submission is a highly effective joint lock technique that targets the shoulder joint and is commonly used in mixed martial arts (MMA). This submission can be executed from various positions and is a valuable weapon in any fighter’s arsenal. In this section, we will discuss the grip and control and the execution of the Kimura submission.
Grip and Control
To execute the Kimura submission, you must first establish a strong grip on your opponent’s arm. This can be achieved by using a figure-four grip, which involves gripping your wrist with one hand and your opponent’s wrist with the other. Alternatively, you can use a double wrist grip, which involves gripping both of your opponent’s wrists with one hand. Once you have established a strong grip, you must control your opponent’s body to prevent them from escaping.
Execution of the Submission
To execute the Kimura submission, you must first isolate your opponent’s arm by controlling their body. You can achieve this by transitioning into a dominant position, such as side control or mount. Once you have isolated your opponent’s arm, you must apply pressure to their shoulder joint by hyper-rotating their arm. This will cause intense pain and force your opponent to tap out.
It is important to note that the Kimura submission can also be used as a transitional technique, allowing you to move into a more dominant position. For example, you can use the Kimura submission to transition from side control to mount.
In summary, the Kimura submission is a highly effective technique that can be used in various positions. By establishing a strong grip and controlling your opponent’s body, you can execute the submission and force your opponent to tap out.
Variations of the Kimura Submission
The Kimura is a versatile submission that can be executed from a variety of positions. Here are two common variations of the Kimura submission in MMA:
Reverse Kimura
The Reverse Kimura, also known as the “Ude Garami” or “Figure Four Armlock,” is a variation of the Kimura where the attacker grabs their own wrist instead of their opponent’s wrist. This submission can be performed from the top or bottom position and can be used to counter an opponent’s attempt at a Kimura.
To execute the Reverse Kimura, the attacker grabs their own wrist with one hand and then uses their other hand to grip their opponent’s wrist. The attacker then twists their body and lifts their opponent’s arm, putting pressure on the shoulder joint. This submission can be very effective, as it is difficult for the opponent to escape once it is locked in.
Armbar-Kimura Combination
The Armbar-Kimura Combination is a submission that combines the Kimura and Armbar submissions. MMA fighters often use this submission to surprise their opponents and catch them off guard.
To execute the Armbar-Kimura Combination, the attacker starts by securing the Kimura grip on their opponent’s arm. Instead of finishing the Kimura, however, the attacker transitions into an Armbar by swinging their leg over their opponent’s head and locking in the Armbar. This submission can be very effective, as it is difficult for the opponent to defend against both the Kimura and Armbar at the same time.
In conclusion, the Kimura submission is a versatile technique that can be used in a variety of situations. By mastering these variations of the Kimura, MMA fighters can add new tools to their arsenal and increase their chances of success in the octagon.
Defending Against the Kimura Submission
When facing an opponent attempting to apply the Kimura submission, a few key strategies can help you defend against it. By preventing the grip and control and escaping the submission, you can reduce the risk of being caught in this effective submission hold.
Preventing the Grip and Control
The first step in defending against the Kimura submission is to prevent your opponent from gaining a strong grip and control over your arm. This can be achieved by keeping your elbows tight to your body and avoiding extending your arm too far away from your body. Additionally, you can use your free hand to grip your opponent’s wrist and prevent them from getting a solid grip.
Another effective way to prevent the grip and control is to use your body weight to your advantage. Keeping your weight low and driving your shoulder into your opponent’s chest can make it difficult for them to get a good grip on your arm.
Escaping the Submission
Knowing how to escape the submission is important if your opponent has already secured a grip and control over your arm. One effective escape technique is to roll toward your opponent and use your body weight to break their grip. As you roll, bring your trapped arm across your body and use your free hand to push your opponent’s head away.
Another escape technique is to create space between your body and your opponent’s by pushing off with your legs and turning away from your opponent. This can make it difficult for them to maintain control over your arm and can give you the opportunity to escape the submission.
In addition to these techniques, remaining calm and focused is important when defending against the Kimura submission. Staying aware of your opponent’s movements and maintaining good defensive positioning can reduce the risk of being caught in this dangerous submission hold.
Overall, defending against the Kimura submission requires a combination of effective grip and control prevention techniques and escape strategies. By staying focused and using these techniques, you can reduce the risk of being caught in this effective submission hold.
