Marcelo, Joel, and Zach* test each other's proficiency with the North-South Choke. If everything is aligned correctly, the finishing pressure exerted is unbelievably minimal. This is one of the reasons Marcelo favors this choke over many of the other submissions he is renowned for using in competition. Once your grips are in place, fine-tuning and adjustments can be made with a very low risk of reversal or mishap. One can develop the necessary sensitivity and positioning for the tap-out by practicing against a willing, 0% resisting partner, and applying the least possible squeeze. If you're not getting the tap, there is something wrong with your approach and amendments need to be made. Open up a dialogue with your partner for feedback on whether or not he is tapping due to a blood choke, or a neck crank. Always aim for the blood choke; cranks are unreliable.


*Current BFC Bantamweight Champion (135lbs), Zach Makovsky, defeated Ryan Roberts by Submission (North-South Choke) in 4:48 of Round-1 at Bellator Fighting Championships 54.