Neck Crank - UFC/MMA
The Neck Crank can be executed from multiple positions and with various techniques, all aimed at forcing the opponent's neck beyond its natural range of motion. It often occurs as a secondary effect of poorly positioned chokes, such as a Rear Naked Choke that is too high, compressing the jaw instead of the carotids. In the UFC, neck cranks are legal but controversial: many fighters consider them less 'technical' compared to pure chokes, but they are undeniably effective and can force even the toughest fighters to tap out.
Neck Crank
Numerous fights in the UFC have been decided by neck cranks, often originating from choke attempts that weren't perfectly positioned but still applied unbearable pressure on the opponent's cervical spine.
Neck Crank & Can Opener
The Can Opener is a specific form of Neck Crank applied from the opponent's closed guard, pulling the head down with hands clasped behind the neck. Both techniques attack the neck but from very different positions. Can Opener.
FAQ - Neck Crank
Is the Neck Crank legal in the UFC?
Yes, neck cranks are legal in the UFC. There are no rules prohibiting pressure on the cervical spine, although pure neck cranks without a choking element are sometimes viewed negatively by the community.
What is the difference between a Neck Crank and a choke?
A choke cuts off blood circulation to the brain by compressing the carotids, causing loss of consciousness. The Neck Crank, on the other hand, applies mechanical pressure to the cervical vertebrae, causing sharp pain without necessarily compromising circulation.
