The Ezekiel Choke: A classic submission for Gi and No-Gi grapplers
- Warren Gannon
- May 4
- 2 min read
Updated: May 24
The Ezekiel choke is one of the most iconic and surprisingly effective submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, especially when performed from dominant positions like mount or inside the opponent’s guard. While commonly associated with Gi training due to the traditional use of the sleeve grip, the choke has evolved to be equally deadly in No-Gi, where adaptation and control are key.
Origins of the Ezekiel Choke
The choke takes its name from Brazilian judoka Ezequiel Paraguassu, who brought it to prominence in the 1980s. Originally a judo technique known as sode guruma jime ("sleeve wheel choke"), Ezequiel popularized its use in BJJ when he began using it successfully during training at Carlson Gracie’s gym. His unexpected success with the technique, especially from inside the closed guard, led to its widespread adoption and the eventual nickname "the Ezekiel choke."
How the Ezekiel Choke works
The core mechanic of the Ezekiel choke involves wrapping one arm around the opponent’s head and using the other to apply pressure across the neck, typically by gripping your own sleeve (in Gi) or forearm/wrist (in No-Gi). This closes off the carotid arteries and/or the windpipe, resulting in either a blood or air choke, depending on how it’s applied.
It’s most commonly executed from:
Mount: High mount allows for easy access to the neck and strong pressure from the top.
Inside closed guard: A rare but effective variation that catches many opponents off guard.
Back control or turtle position: While less common, creative setups can lead to Ezekiel entries from these angles too.
Ezekiel in the Gi
In the Gi, the choke is highly reliable thanks to the ability to grip your own sleeve, locking in the submission securely. It’s a go-to for many BJJ practitioners once they establish top control, and it often requires only minimal movement to finish, making it a low-risk, high-reward option.
Adapting to No-Gi
Without the benefit of fabric grips, No-Gi Ezekiel chokes require finesse. Instead of grabbing the sleeve, the attacking arm typically slides across the opponent’s throat while the other hand reinforces pressure by cupping the wrist or locking in an S-grip. While harder to finish due to sweat and mobility, it can still be a powerful tool when applied with control and proper positioning.
Key factors for No-Gi success include:
Solid top pressure
Deep head-and-arm control
Efficient forearm placement across the neck
Minimal space for the opponent to escape
A subtle but devastating weapon
Though sometimes overlooked in favor of flashier submissions, the Ezekiel choke is a quiet killer. It doesn’t rely on speed or athleticism but rather timing, pressure, and precision. Whether you’re training in the Gi or testing your skills in No-Gi rounds, this technique is a valuable addition to any grappler’s arsenal.
🎥 Want to see a clean No-Gi Ezekiel choke in action? Check out this great breakdown below from Kent Peters of ZombieProof BJJ.
