One of the most interesting parts of grappling is seeing how it continues to evolve, even in small positions. Professional athletes and coaches are constantly looking for new and novel ways to initiate or counter existing techniques or strategies, and the moves trickle outward through jiu-jitsu from there. For a good recent example, we can look at the leg lock position that Nicky Ryan used recently at WNO 23 - and how Deandre Corbe answered that position with a counter at WNO 24 against a B-Team athlete.

With all the buzz around heel hooks and the focus on no-gi oriented leglocks, it’s easy to forget how powerful the straight ankle lock can be. The footlock is more than a way to earn the favor of the judges or score an advantage in a close match. When applied correctly, it’s a powerful submission responsible for some of the most brutal-looking breaks in jiu-jitsu.