Double Leg Takedowns (diary entry)

05.10.16   Tonight, this particular client returned to his stand-up grappling/wrestling programme. We worked on lowline attacks.   This began with a simple double leg takedown for MMA. The fighter drives into the target pressing the head into the middle of the body and pulling the opponent’s legs back. This technique is executed explosively, impacting against the target and driving the opponent into the ground. This usually results in landing in the opponent’s guard, which can be fine for a pound ‘n ground style attack.   However, if you wish to avoid the guard then a more Brazilian Jiu Jitsu style takedown is in order. This is also drilled in Freestyle Wrestling and probably came directly from this sport, possibly via Rolls Gracie’s cross-training experiences. The classic double leg takedown drives into the target with the same foot positioning, sliding the lead knee along the ground between an opponent’s legs and then carried forward by the rear leg coming around the target. However, the head positioning is to the side of the opponent. This carries an element of risk that must be avoided when doing a single leg takedown and when doing the previous version of the double leg, as in these instances the fighter is left wide open for a guillotine choke. I notice that more fighters have moved away from this “traditional” version of the double leg takedown.   The submission fighter often mitigates this risk by going back to our old friend, Mr 45, and cuts the angle in tight upon entry. He then follows this by pressing his head firmly into the side and as far across the opponent’s ribcage as possible. This type of takedown then involves a lift that clears the opponent’s legs, landing the fighter in side control. The MMA version of this sometimes involves not dropping onto the knee and this can be a good self-defence compromise. However, I believe in learning the traditional method first and then scaling back to adapt accordingly.   My client’s homework consisted of practising the lifting motion from the ground using progressive weights. This is to condition the lifting behaviour as early as possible once the entry for the traditional double leg is used.   A Great Little Article: "Top 4 Most Useful Takedowns in MMA"