Omoplata Sweep

Sweep
Also known as:
Omoplata to Sweep

The Omoplata Sweep uses the omoplata leg configuration to off-balance and sweep the opponent when the submission itself is defended or unavailable. It converts the rotational control of the omoplata into a sweep by driving the opponent forward over their trapped shoulder, leading to mount or back control.

Quick Reference

Key principles

  • · The trapped arm and shoulder act as a fixed pivot point—keep the leg heavy and hips tight to prevent the opponent from posturing or pulling the arm free.
  • · Forward momentum is generated by hip-escaping into the opponent while using your legs to elevate or direct their weight over the trapped shoulder.
  • · When the opponent bases forward to resist the omoplata finish, redirect that energy into the sweep rather than fighting for the submission.
  • · Control the far hip or belt to prevent the opponent from rolling through or creating distance.
  • · If the opponent postures up to resist, threaten the omoplata submission to force them back down into sweep range.

Execution

  1. 1 From your omoplata position, secure the opponent's trapped arm with your legs and sit up, controlling their waist or far hip with your hands.
  2. 2 Hip-escape toward the opponent to tighten the shoulder lock angle and load their weight forward over the trapped shoulder.
  3. 3 Drive forward with your hips while pulling their far hip toward you, toppling them over the trapped arm.
  4. 4 Follow the sweep by climbing to mount over their back, or if they turtle, transition to back control by securing seatbelt grip and inserting hooks.

Common mistakes

  • × Failing to control the far hip or waist, allowing the opponent to roll through the omoplata and escape or reverse position.
  • × Staying flat on your back instead of sitting up and hip-escaping in, which removes the leverage needed to generate the sweeping force.
  • × Releasing the leg clamp on the shoulder too early during the sweep, letting the opponent retract their arm and re-establish base.

Do it from

Positions and situations where the Omoplata Sweep shows up.

Omoplata submission Omoplata Control
11 less common
Butterfly Guard Bottom Closed Guard Bottom Double Sleeve Guard Feet On Hips Guard Kimura Control Mission Control New York Control Rubber Guard Squid Guard Williams Guard Shin-to-shin Guard Bottom

Where it lands

The position you end up in.

Back Control Top Mount Top