Banana Split
Submission
Also known as:
Crotch Ripper
The Banana Split is a groin/hamstring submission that hyperextends the opponent's legs apart in a splits position. It is typically accessed from back control variations like the Truck, Electric Chair, or Quarter Guard, where one leg is already isolated and threaded between the opponent's legs.
Quick Reference
Key principles
- · Control of the hips is paramount—your body must be tightly connected to the opponent's hips to prevent them from turning or relieving pressure.
- · The submission works by driving one leg away from the other while anchoring the opposite leg, creating a splitting force on the groin and hamstrings.
- · Use your lockdown or leg lace to secure the near leg while your arms pull the far leg toward you to maximize the split.
- · Anticipate the opponent trying to roll toward you to relieve pressure—maintain heavy hip control and re-angle to keep them flat or on their side.
- · Slow, steady pressure is more effective than explosive pulling, as the groin and hamstrings tear before the opponent feels acute pain to tap early.
Execution
- 1 From the Truck or similar position, ensure you have a leg lace or lockdown threading through the opponent's near leg, pinning it in place.
- 2 Secure the opponent's far leg by hooking behind the knee or grabbing the ankle/foot with both hands, clasping a gable or S-grip.
- 3 Pull the far leg toward your chest while simultaneously driving the near leg away using your leg lace and hip extension.
- 4 Squeeze your knees together and arch your hips into the opponent to maximize the splitting force and prevent them from closing their legs.
- 5 Apply steady, increasing pressure until the opponent taps from groin or hamstring pain.
Common mistakes
- × Failing to secure the near leg properly with the leg lace, allowing the opponent to close their legs and neutralize the split.
- × Gripping the far leg too close to the hip instead of at the knee or ankle, which reduces leverage and makes the split ineffective.
- × Losing hip connection by scooting too far away from the opponent, giving them space to turn in and escape the position entirely.
Do it from
Positions and situations where the Banana Split shows up.
