JM Modern Jiu Jitsu’s Technique of the Week

Ankle Lock from the butterfly guard is one of my favorite attacks. It combines the opportunity to finish a submission with the ability to come on top and secure a dominant position. That is what makes it such a valuable weapon in both training and competition.

One of the things I love most about this attack is that it forces your opponent to make a difficult choice. They can focus on defending the ankle lock and risk getting swept, or they can try to maintain their position and leave the submission exposed. Either way, you are creating offensive opportunities and staying one step ahead.

From the butterfly guard, proper grips and off balancing are essential. Once your opponent's weight begins to shift, the ankle lock becomes available. Because you are already controlling the exchange, many opponents do not recognize the danger until the submission is already locked in. Even when the finish is not there, the reaction often allows you to come up on top and take control of the position.

The best techniques in Jiu Jitsu are the ones that offer more than one path to success. The butterfly guard ankle lock does exactly that. You can finish the submission, use their defense to create a sweep, or force a scramble that puts you in a better position. That combination of control, pressure, and versatility is why it remains one of my favorite attacks from the butterfly guard.