Fake Flower Sweep to Triangle Choke
Rafael Lovato Jr. demonstrates the "Fake Flower Sweep to Triangle Choke," blending a strategic setup with a high-percentage submission from closed guard.
Starting with a focus on the Bravo grip, Rafael adapts by looping the lapel around the opponent's arm instead of the head, securing it behind the tricep and elbow. This grip offers substantial control over the opponent's movement and sets up various attacks. However, when the opponent resists by tightening their position, Rafael introduces a flower sweep as a feint to open up further opportunities.
With one hand gripping the opponent's pants near the ankle, Rafael places his foot on the mat and shifts his hips slightly to bait the opponent into posturing up. As the opponent reacts, Rafael executes a diagonal kick behind the opponent’s shoulder with his other leg. This movement isn’t intended to sweep but to force the opponent to post their hand for balance.
As the opponent posts, Rafael transitions the kicking leg into a bite position behind the opponent's back, using it to lift his hips and slide the leg over the opponent's arm to shoot for a triangle choke. The control maintained by the lapel grip plays a crucial role in securing the arm and setting up the choke.
Once in position for the triangle, Rafael can adjust by grabbing his shin to tighten the lock. This setup not only capitalizes on the opponent's reactions but also seamlessly integrates multiple techniques, ensuring that even if the initial sweep fails, it transitions into a potent submission attempt. This approach exemplifies a fluid combination of sweeps and submissions, keeping the opponent off-balance and defensively compromised.
