Strategies to Counter Opponents’ Underhooks in a Match

The underhook is a powerful control position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), often used to establish dominance in both stand-up and ground exchanges. At RollBliss, we understand the importance of countering this position effectively to maintain control and prevent opponents from gaining an advantage. This guide explores three key techniques to reverse and counter the underhook in BJJ.

Key Takeaways

• The underhook is a dominant position that must be countered quickly.
• Whizzers, crossfaces, and reversals are essential defensive tools.
• Regular training and positional sparring enhance your ability to counter underhooks.
• RollBliss offers high-quality training gear to support your BJJ progression.

Understanding the Underhook’s Threat

The underhook allows an opponent to control your upper body, set up takedowns, and advance position. If left unchecked, it can lead to dominant positions such as side control or back control. Recognizing and reacting to an opponent’s underhook early is crucial to maintaining control.

Technique 1: Whizzer Defense and Pressure

The whizzer is one of the most effective counters to an opponent’s underhook. To apply it effectively:

• Immediately overhook their arm and apply downward pressure.

• Use your hips and posture to create resistance and prevent forward movement.

• Incorporate knee blocks or hip adjustments to disrupt their balance.

From this position, you can transition into front headlocks, shoulder crunches, or even set up sweeps and takedown reversals.

Technique 2: Crossface and Frame Control

A well-placed crossface neutralizes an opponent’s ability to advance from the underhook position. To execute:

• Place your forearm across their face or collarbone to create discomfort and break posture.

• Use your other arm to reinforce your base and prevent their forward movement.

• Combine this with hip movement to recover position or transition into a dominant grip.

Crossface control is particularly useful in preventing an opponent from establishing deep underhooks in half-guard or standing clinch situations.

Technique 3: Underhook Reversal to Duck-Under or Sweep

If your opponent secures an underhook, you can use their momentum against them to reverse the position:

• Duck-Under Escape: Lower your level and step around to take their back when they overcommit to an underhook.

• Hip Bump Sweep: From half-guard or butterfly guard, shift your weight and use the underhook pressure to execute a sweep.

• Arm Drag Transition: Redirect their underhook by pulling their arm across your body to create an opening for back control.

These reversals allow you to turn an opponent’s offensive grip into an opportunity for attack.

How to Train and Perfect These Techniques

• Drill Defensively: Work on recognizing underhook attempts and immediately reacting with the right counter.

• Positional Sparring: Start from underhook situations and practice different escape and counter variations.

• Strengthen Core and Frames: Strong frames and posture make it easier to resist and counter underhooks effectively.

How RollBliss Supports Your Training

RollBliss provides premium BJJ gear designed for intense training sessions. Whether you’re drilling underhook defenses or refining your grip control, our durable gis and rash guards offer the comfort and flexibility needed for peak performance.

Conclusion

Mastering underhook counters is vital for maintaining control and dictating the pace of a match. By incorporating these defensive and reversal techniques into your training, you’ll develop a stronger, more adaptable grappling game. RollBliss is here to equip you with the best gear, ensuring you stay comfortable and focused while refining your skills on the mats.

FAQs

Why is it important to counter an opponent’s underhook?

The underhook provides control, takedown setups, and positional advantages, making it essential to counter quickly to avoid being dominated.

What’s the best way to stop an underhook before it becomes a problem?

Early awareness and immediate reaction with frames, whizzers, or crossfaces help prevent an opponent from establishing deep control.

Can these techniques work against stronger opponents?

Yes. Proper mechanics, timing, and leverage play a significant role in neutralizing an underhook, even against stronger opponents.