Jacare- No Gi kimura

I was watching the ADCC 2005 77-88kg dvd, and noticed that Jacare's first option submission was the kimura. He goes for it from half guard and uses it to pass to side control, where he finishes the kimura in his first match. He goes for it a few more times in subsequent matches, but I think he only finishes it in that first match.

The move has been on my mind for a few months now. I was explained the importance of low-risk, high percentage moves, and the kimura fits right in there. If you miss the kimura, you don't really give up position. Plus, you can get back in position for it relatively easily. This is unlike a straight arm lock from the top, which could possibly end up with you on your back if you miss it!

From the top game, this is the perfect submission.

The kimura also offers sweeping options and control points. Because it's such a secure grip, it actually gives you a handle in no gi. By controlling and isolating that arm, you are already preventing an opponent from escaping. Your weight and base is still well-distributed, so you aren't really in danger of being reversed if you have it on properly. They can't really bridge well with one arm taken away, and they might be applying pressure onto the shoulder by trying to escape! Furthermore, it's a great counter to many of the escapes that involve coming onto the side, turning to the knees, and extending the arms to try and shrimp away. I've used kimura grips before to control an opponent, take the back, flow into other submissions, etc.

Also, it's mentally dominating. Once you get to the point of causing an opponent to tap to a kimura, you have pretty much already punished them from the top with pressure, tired them out by shutting down escape attempts, and placed them in a submission where they can no longer move ANYWHERE. That gives you a mental edge, for sure.

I'm definitely going to learn everything I can about this submission.