Donkey Choke

Donkey Choke

Already have access? Log in

About this video

The Ezekiel choke, also known as the Donkey Choke, is executed from the top position and involves using both the gi lapel and the leg to apply pressure. Proper placement on the neck is crucial to avoid turning the choke into a neck crank, which is legal in competition as long as a choke is also applied.

  1. Begin by controlling the opponent with a knee on belly position, then fake the knee on belly to peel their arm away and establish side control.
  2. Open the lapel and pass it to the hand under the opponent's head, tightening the grip near the armpit for a secure hold.
  3. To prepare for the choke, remove the opponent's blocking arm by weaving over the top and hugging it close to you, optionally securing it with your own lapel.
  4. Slide your grip down the lapel, straightening your arm and leaning your body towards the opponent's legs to expose their neck.
  5. Position your leg over the opponent's body, aiming to place their neck in the pit of your knee. Flexibility can affect the ease of this step.
  6. For the finish, you can either use just the heel close to the neck or, if flexible enough, drive your leg all the way through to the other side.
  7. Release the lapel grip if necessary, base out with your free hand, and kick back with your leg while flexing your wrist to apply the choke.
  8. Alternatively, the choke can be completed without the lapel by placing the thumb in the back of the collar and using the same leg motion and wrist flexion to finish.

This technique offers a powerful choke that can be adapted to different body types and flexibility levels, with the gi lapel providing additional leverage for the submission.