MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) is an exciting sport where fighters use a combination of striking, grappling, and submissions to defeat their opponents. While striking often gets the most attention, submissions are a crucial part of MMA. In fact, submissions can end a fight in an instant—either forcing an opponent to tap out or rendering them unconscious. But how exactly do submissions work in MMA? What rules govern them, and what can fighters do to avoid getting caught in a submission?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about MMA submission rules. From the types of submissions allowed to the situations where submissions can end a fight, we’ve got it all covered. Let’s dive into the world of submissions and how they play a pivotal role in MMA.
1. What Is a Submission in MMA?
A submission is a technique used by a fighter to force their opponent into a position where they must give up, either by tapping out or passing out. Submissions typically involve joint locks, chokeholds, or strangles that put pressure on the opponent’s body, limiting their movement or cutting off their air supply. The goal is to make the opponent submit, signaling their surrender to prevent injury or unconsciousness.
Some common types of submissions include:
- Joint Locks: These attacks target the joints, especially the arms and legs. The pressure is applied to force the joint beyond its normal range of motion. Examples include the armbar and kimura.
- Chokes and Strangles: These submissions cut off the opponent’s air supply or blood flow to the brain. The most well-known examples are the rear-naked choke and guillotine choke.
In MMA, submission attempts are legal and can win a fight, but they must follow strict rules and guidelines to ensure safety.
2. Legal Submissions in MMA
MMA fighters can use a wide range of submissions to win a fight. However, not all techniques are allowed in every promotion or organization. Here are some of the most common legal submissions in MMA:
A. Armbar
The armbar is a submission that targets the elbow joint. It involves isolating the opponent’s arm and applying pressure in a way that forces the elbow to hyperextend. This can cause severe damage to the arm if the fighter does not tap out in time.
- Legal? Yes, the armbar is a legal submission in MMA. It is widely used in both ground and standing positions.
B. Rear-Naked Choke
The rear-naked choke is one of the most effective submission techniques. It involves wrapping the arm around the opponent’s neck from behind and applying pressure, cutting off their air supply and blood flow to the brain. If the opponent does not tap, they risk losing consciousness.
- Legal? Yes, the rear-naked choke is a legal submission in MMA and one of the most common ways to win via submission.
C. Guillotine Choke
The guillotine choke is a submission that targets the neck, often used when an opponent shoots for a takedown. The fighter locks their arm around the opponent’s neck and applies pressure, causing them to choke.
- Legal? Yes, the guillotine choke is legal in MMA, and it’s a great way to stop an opponent’s takedown attempt.
D. Kimura
The kimura is a shoulder lock that involves twisting the opponent’s arm behind their back. The pressure on the shoulder joint can cause extreme pain, and if the opponent doesn’t tap, it can result in a serious injury.
- Legal? Yes, the kimura is legal and widely used in MMA.
E. Triangle Choke
The triangle choke is a submission that involves wrapping the legs around an opponent’s neck and trapping one of their arms. By locking the legs together and squeezing, the fighter cuts off the opponent’s air supply and blood flow.
- Legal? Yes, the triangle choke is a legal and effective submission used frequently in MMA.
F. Heel Hook
A heel hook is a leg submission that targets the knee joint. The fighter applies pressure to the opponent’s leg and twists it in a way that can severely damage the knee.
- Legal? The heel hook is legal in many MMA promotions, but it is prohibited in some organizations, especially for beginners due to the potential for severe injury.
3. What Happens When a Fighter Taps Out?
In MMA, a fighter can tap out to signal that they surrender to a submission. Tapping out means that the fighter is voluntarily giving up to avoid injury or unconsciousness. The fighter typically taps the mat, their opponent, or themselves with their hands or feet to signal their submission.
When a fighter taps, the referee immediately stops the fight. This ensures that the opponent doesn’t continue to apply pressure and potentially cause injury. Tapping out is a standard and accepted part of the sport, as it allows fighters to protect themselves while maintaining their safety.
4. When Is a Submission Illegal in MMA?
While most submissions are allowed, there are a few illegal submission techniques in MMA. These are usually banned due to the risk of severe injury or danger to the fighter. Some common illegal submissions include:
A. Spinning Toe Hold
The spinning toe hold is a leg lock that involves spinning while applying pressure to the knee. It can cause serious knee injuries and is prohibited in many MMA organizations.
B. Neck Cranks
A neck crank is a submission that involves twisting or torquing the neck. While it may not technically be a choke, the movement can cause significant pain or damage. Neck cranks are illegal in some MMA promotions.
C. Small Joint Manipulation
In MMA, fighters are prohibited from manipulating the small joints, such as the fingers and toes. Finger locks and similar submissions are not allowed, as they can lead to permanent damage.
D. Twisting Leg Locks (Some Variants)
In some MMA promotions, certain twisting leg locks—like the toe hold or certain knee locks—are prohibited, especially for amateur fighters due to their complexity and high risk of injury.
5. The Role of the Referee in Submissions
The referee plays a crucial role in ensuring that submissions are applied within the rules of MMA. When a submission is applied, the referee closely monitors the fighter to ensure that they don’t pass out or suffer injury. The referee will stop the fight if:
- The fighter taps out.
- The fighter is unable to defend themselves or is unconscious.
- The submission is applied illegally, such as small joint manipulation.
Referees are trained to recognize dangerous situations and act quickly to protect the fighters.
6. How to Defend Against Submissions
Knowing how to defend against submissions is just as important as learning how to apply them. Here are a few general tips for submission defense:
- Stay Calm: Panicking will only make it easier for your opponent to finish the submission. Stay calm and think through your escape.
- Posture and Positioning: Always maintain good posture to prevent your opponent from getting dominant positions, like the back or full mount, where submissions are more likely.
- Know the Taps: Be aware of when your opponent is close to locking in a submission. Tapping early can prevent injury.
- Train Escape Techniques: Practice submission escapes in training so that you can react quickly when you’re caught in a bad position.
FAQs
1. Can a submission be stopped if the fighter doesn’t tap?
Yes, a submission can be stopped if the fighter becomes unconscious or if the referee determines that the fighter is in danger of serious injury. The referee is responsible for stopping the fight when the fighter is no longer able to defend themselves.
2. What is the most common submission in MMA?
The rear-naked choke is one of the most common submissions in MMA. It’s effective, fast, and can quickly incapacitate an opponent if applied correctly.
3. Are all submissions allowed in MMA?
No, while most submissions are allowed, some techniques, like small joint manipulation and certain leg locks, are banned in some organizations due to the risk of injury.
4. What should I do if I’m caught in a submission?
If you’re caught in a submission, remain calm and focus on your escape. Your best option is to tap out before sustaining injury. Practicing escapes in training will help you stay prepared.
5. Can a fighter submit themselves?
A fighter can’t submit themselves, but they may tap out to indicate they’ve had enough and want the submission to stop. If a fighter verbally submits (e.g., says “I give up”), the fight is immediately stopped.
Conclusion
Submissions are one of the most exciting aspects of MMA, and understanding the rules behind them is essential for both fighters and fans. From joint locks to chokeholds, submissions are an effective way to win a fight, but they must be applied with care to avoid injury. By following the rules and training properly, fighters can master the art of submissions and use them to dominate their opponents in the cage.
Stay safe, keep training, and respect the power of submissions!
