The most dangerous submissions in MMA: How these techniques finish fights

In the world of MMA, there are countless ways to end a fight, but few techniques are as impressive — and destructive — as submissions. While a knockout shows brute strength, submissions demonstrate technique, control, and mental dominance. A well-executed submission forces your opponent to surrender without a single hard strike. At Fightstyle, we believe this is the true essence of martial arts: control with respect, power with precision.

What Makes a Submission Truly Dangerous?

A dangerous submission isn’t just about causing damage. It’s the combination of precision, timing, and control that makes the difference. A fighter who forces their opponent to submit through pure technical insight shows how deep the art of MMA goes. But this also demands responsibility: a poorly executed technique can cost you position or lead to injury — to yourself or your partner. That’s why mastering these techniques is essential for every serious fighter.

Rear Naked Choke — Deadly and Invisible

The Rear Naked Choke is perhaps the most iconic submission in MMA. It’s not a brute chokehold but a refined technique that cuts off blood flow to the brain. Within seconds, your opponent must choose: tap out or lose consciousness. Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira have perfected this technique into a true art form. If your opponent takes your back and applies this choke, you know you’re in serious trouble.

Armbar — Classic Arm Destruction

The Armbar has been a favorite among fighters for decades. With perfect leverage, it hyperextends the elbow, often causing serious damage. Think of Ronda Rousey, who repeatedly made opponents tap out with this move. What makes the Armbar so dangerous is its versatility: you can apply it from mount, guard, or even flying. One small mistake from your opponent is enough to literally put their arm in your hands.

Kimura — Control Over Shoulder and Mind

The Kimura is often underestimated. This shoulder lock can be applied from guard or side control and targets multiple joints at once. The pressure on the shoulder and elbow can become unbearable, especially if your opponent doesn’t tap in time. Additionally, the Kimura can be used to force dominant positions. The threat alone forces your opponent to react — exactly what you want as a smart fighter.

Triangle Choke — Long, Cunning, and Deadly

The Triangle Choke is a favorite of taller fighters with strong legs. By locking your legs around the neck and arm, you block blood flow to the brain. This technique is hard for the audience to see but extremely effective. The triangle requires perfect timing and positioning and offers numerous transitions to other submissions like armbars or omoplatas. In the right hands, it’s a deadly weapon.

Which Submission Fits Your Fighting Style?

Not every submission suits every fighter. Your body type, background, and personal preference play a big role. Taller fighters often find it easier to apply triangles, while shorter, explosive fighters benefit more from guillotines or kimuras. If you come from BJJ, wrestling, or judo, you probably already have a natural preference. What applies to everyone: safety first. Train controlled, with the right partners, and good gear. At Fightstyle.nl, you’ll find protective gear and training tools that help you grow injury-free.

Join the Fightstyle Family

Submissions are not brute force moves but masterpieces of technique and strategy. Those who master them have a unique way to dominate their opponent — physically and mentally. At Fightstyle, we stand for growth, discipline, and community. Become part of our martial arts family and discover how we help you improve — with the right gear, knowledge, and support.

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