Underhook Sweep

Sweep

The underhook sweep uses a deep underhook to off-balance and topple an opponent by driving into them while removing their base. It is available from clinch positions where you have established an underhook, working equally well in gi and no-gi. This sweep capitalizes on an opponent who is driving forward or has their weight high.

Quick Reference

Key principles

  • · A deep underhook with your shoulder pressure into their armpit is the primary control lever for breaking posture and directing their weight.
  • · Eliminating the opponent's posting base on the underhook side by blocking or tripping their leg is essential for completing the sweep.
  • · Timing the sweep when the opponent drives forward or shifts weight toward you converts their momentum into the topple.
  • · If the opponent wizards or overhooks your underhook arm, use that commitment against them by switching to a duck-under or changing the sweep angle.
  • · Keeping your hips close and your center of gravity low prevents the opponent from sprawling away or re-establishing base.

Execution

  1. 1 Secure a deep underhook by threading your arm under their arm and locking your hand on their far shoulder or back, driving your shoulder into their armpit.
  2. 2 Step your lead foot to the outside of their same-side leg while pulling their weight over you with the underhook and controlling their opposite arm with a collar tie or wrist grip.
  3. 3 Drop your level and block or hook their near leg with your outside leg while simultaneously lifting and turning with the underhook to break their base.
  4. 4 Drive diagonally across their body as their base collapses, following them to the ground and establishing a dominant top position such as side control or mount.
  5. 5 If they resist by posting wide, re-angle your attack by switching to an inside trip or transition to a body lock takedown on the opposite side.

Common mistakes

  • × Keeping the underhook shallow with the elbow flared allows the opponent to easily pummel back in or apply a whizzer to neutralize the position.
  • × Attempting the sweep while standing too upright gives the opponent space to sprawl and makes the lift ineffective because your hips are too far away.
  • × Neglecting to block or trip the opponent's leg results in them simply stepping out to recover base, stalling the sweep entirely.

Do it from

Positions and situations where the Underhook Sweep shows up.

Underhook Control
1 less common
Overhook Control Clinch

Where it lands

The position you end up in.

Mount Top