Difficulty Level
Unverified

Cow Catcher

A versatile control technique that combines head control with an underhook to dominate an opponent's posture and movement. The practitioner secures a firm grip on the opponent's head (often using a c…

Alternative Names
  • BJJ: Underhook Headlock, Front Headlock with Underhook
  • Wrestling: Cow Catcher, Underhook Headlock, Front Headlock Control

Description

A versatile control technique that combines head control with an underhook to dominate an opponent's posture and movement. The practitioner secures a firm grip on the opponent's head (often using a chin strap grip) while simultaneously establishing a deep underhook on the opposite arm. This creates exceptional control by applying forward pressure that forces the opponent to carry the practitioner's weight, severely limiting their mobility and setting up various offensive opportunities.

Common Applications

- Takedown Defense: Effectively counters aggressive takedown attempts by controlling the opponent's head and posture
- Submission Setups: Creates opportunities for guillotine chokes, D'arce chokes, anaconda chokes, and other front headlock submissions
- Positional Control: Facilitates transitions to dominant positions like side control or mount
- Scramble Control: Provides excellent control during transitional exchanges and scrambles
- Guard Passing: Can be used as part of pressure passing systems, particularly from half guard

Demonstration Videos

HOGA - qasim - front headlock underhook sweep
Timestamp: 5s - 10s
Watch

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