🦁 Mata Leão / Rear Naked Choke: Confidence, Safety & Tradition
One of the first submissions many BJJ students learn is the Mata Leão, also known as the Rear Naked Choke.
In Japanese Judo, this technique is called Hadaka Jime (裸絞) — meaning “naked choke”, a strangle that doesn’t rely on the gi, only your arms and body mechanics.
It’s famous for being the highest-percentage submission in BJJ, Judo and MMA — simple, effective, and reliable.
🤝 Why BJJ Freo Teaches It Early
At BJJ Freo we introduce the Mata Leão early, not to rush anyone into submissions, but because it helps build:
Trust in the tap – students see that tapping is respected and released right away.
Self-awareness – learning to notice your body’s signals and knowing when to set limits.
Confidence in technique – even beginners can succeed without brute force.
Starting with a submission that’s both simple and high-percentage helps new students feel that Jiu-Jitsu truly works for every body, not just the strong or athletic.
📜 A Technique With History
In Judo, the choke belongs to the classic set of constriction techniques (Shime-waza).
Through Mitsuyo Maeda and others, it travelled to Brazil, where it became known as Mata Leão — “lion killer.”
By the 20th century, it was one of the most reliable finishes in both self-defence and competitive arenas.
At the first UFC in 1993, the Rear Naked Choke proved itself as a fight-ender.
Knowing this history reminds us that we’re practicing something with deep roots and proven effectiveness.
🛡️ Safety Comes First
Practicing the Mata Leão early helps every student understand that:
Tapping is communication – not weakness.
Safety is mutual – both partners share responsibility.
Boundaries matter – on the mats and in life, knowing your limits is strength.
These lessons build emotional awareness and trust — essential for a safe, respectful training culture.
🌱 Confidence That Lasts
When you learn how to safely apply and safely escape from the Mata Leão:
You feel calm under pressure.
You rely on control and patience over strength.
You carry a quiet, grounded confidence into daily life.
At BJJ Freo, this balance of safety, respect, and confidence is why we love teaching the Mata Leão early.
It’s not just a technique — it’s a lesson in trust, awareness, and self-belief.
📍 Local Roots & Next Steps
BJJ Freo – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in North Fremantle, WA
Inclusive | Beginner-Friendly | Game-Based Learning
📧 vini@bjjfreo.com
🌐 bjjfreo.com
👉 Join us for a class → Classes | Learn more about our approach → About
