The Paper Cutter Choke (or North-South Choke) is a highly effective submission primarily executed from a dominant side-control position. It uses a scissor-like motion to compress the opponent’s neck, forcing a quick submission.
How It Works
The mechanic of the choke relies on two primary points of contact:
- The Anchor: The practitioner slides one arm under the opponent’s neck to provide a stable base of support.
- The Blade: The other forearm drops across the front of the opponent’s throat.
- The Finish: By dropping the chest and driving the “blade” elbow toward the floor, the practitioner creates a shearing force—similar to a paper cutter—that restricts the opponent’s airway and blood flow.
Key Technical Details
To ensure the submission is tight and controlled, keep these principles in mind:
| Feature | Execution Strategy |
| Grip | Secure a firm grip on the opponent’s collar or shoulder to prevent them from creating space. |
| Body Weight | Lean your chest onto the opponent’s torso to pin them and amplify the choking pressure. |
| Elbow Position | Keep your elbows tight to your ribs; flared elbows allow the opponent room to escape or turn. |
| Control | Maintain heavy hip pressure to stop the opponent from “shrimping” or rotating away. |
Why It’s Effective
The Paper Cutter is a favorite among BJJ practitioners because it offers a high-percentage finish without requiring you to abandon a dominant position. If the opponent successfully defends, you are usually still in a secure side-control, allowing you to transition immediately to another attack.