The **Rear-Naked Choke (RNC)**—known in Portuguese as the *Mata Leão* ("Lion Killer")—is a blood choke applied from an opponent's back. It is the **single most common submission finish in MMA history**, accounting for approximately **25–30% of all submission victories** in the UFC according to fight statistics. Back control — the position required to execute the RNC — is widely regarded as the **highest-value grappling position in MMA**, offering both offensive submissions and the ability to deliver ground-and-pound while the opponent cannot strike back effectively.

## Mechanics & Execution

The RNC is a blood choke, meaning it restricts the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain by compressing the carotid arteries on either side of the neck. When applied correctly, the average time to secure unconsciousness via carotid compression is **8–14 seconds**, making a fully locked RNC nearly impossible to survive without tapping. Khabib Nurmagomedov — one of the UFC's most decorated grapplers — finished **3 of his last 4 UFC victories by submission**, all secured from back control positions.

**Step-by-step execution:**

1. **Establish Back Control:** Secure hooks (inserting feet inside the opponent's thighs) and a seatbelt grip around the opponent's torso (often initiated after a successful [sprawl](sprawl.md) defense and go-behind transition).
2. **Wrap the Throat:** Slide the choking arm around the opponent's neck, aligning the opponent's trachea with your elbow crease to protect it from crushing pressure while focusing compression on the sides of the neck.
3. **Clasp the Bicep:** Clasp your choking hand onto the bicep of your non-choking arm.
4. **Hide the Hand:** Tuck your non-choking hand behind the opponent's head to prevent them from grabbing your fingers.
5. **Squeeze and Finish:** Expand your chest, pull your elbows back, and squeeze to finish the choke.

## Why "Naked"?

The term "naked" refers to the fact that the choke is applied without needing the opponent's clothing or gi jacket to complete the submission (unlike many traditional Judo or Jiu-Jitsu collar chokes). This makes it highly versatile for no-gi grappling and modern MMA.

## Defense Against the RNC

Once the choke is locked in fully, escape is virtually impossible, and tapping is required. Successful defense must be done early:

- **Fight the Hands:** Keep chin tucked and immediately grab the opponent's choking hand/wrist to pull it down (peeling the hand).
- **Protect the Neck:** Avoid letting the opponent link their hands.
- **Clear the Hooks:** Fight the opponent's leg hooks and slide your back flat against the canvas to escape the back control position.

### Authority Citations

1. [International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Rules Book](https://ibjjf.com/books-videos) - IBJJF
2. [Rear-Naked Choke Anatomy and Mechanics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rear-naked_choke) - Wikipedia