Craig Jones is probably more well known for his elite leg attacks and fondness for the Z guard, but he’s also an expert in Triangle Chokes and his “The Triangle Machine” release doesn’t disappoint. Jones is universally regarded as one of the best no gi grapplers on the planet after a string of incredible performances over the last three years for events like Submission Underground and Polaris. His efforts culminated in his biggest achievement to date in 2019, an ADCC silver medal on only his second attempt at the tournament.
The instructional is a relatively short release with seven different sections lasting around forty minutes in total, with the content as follows:
- Finishing The Triangle.
- Reverse Triangle From Defended Kneebar.
- The Mounted Triangle.
- Triangle From Side Control.
- Triangle From The Back.
- Low Flying Triangle From Uchi Mata Setup.
- ADCC Flying Triangle.
The first section is a relatively straightforward video going through the finishing mechanics of a basic triangle choke and although it won’t be groundbreaking to more experienced grapplers, it serves as a nice reference point for the more unusual triangle chokes that Jones details later. The second is a lovely counter that acts upon the principle of chaining together lower and upper body submission attempts for the greatest effect and is definitely for the more advanced practitioner as a result.
The next three sections are all dedicated to triangle chokes from dominant positions and although most grapplers will be aware of an entry to the triangle choke from these positions, Jones goes through the setups for each in real fine detail. He focuses on gripping tactics and dealing with common reactions in order to secure the triangle choke in each situation, while also making sure he details the minute differences in the finishing mechanics depending on the position.
The final two sections are back to being more advanced variations of the triangle choke with both being from standing position. It’s not common to see setups for the flying triangle choke that use a takedown attempt to get into position but Jones’ Uchi Mata setup is perfect for forcing the opponent into the perfect position. The second flying triangle setup is the same one he used against Murilo Santana in the quarter-finals of ADCC 2017 and it’s nice to see him dissect the technique that catapulted him into BJJ fame originally.
All in all, this instructional is well worth it for anyone looking to vary up their entries into the triangle choke but the more experienced grappler is likely to get more out of this than anyone newer to the sport, especially those of you who’ve built a game around triangle chokes to begin with.
Craig Jones – The Triangle Machine is available on BJJ Fanatics now, click here to purchase.
