Flying armbar defense

[Higus]

The flying armbar is effective because it relies on the element of surprise. If you knew your opponent was planning on opening with a flying armbar, what would you do to capitalize on this? What would be the most devastating reversal or counter would you plan to make use of this knowledge?

 

[floridalawdog]

keep my elbows in close.

 

[Jiu-Jitsu Cop]

When your opponent jumps up push on his hips so he can not jump into the flying armbar. Slam down on top of him (Not sure if the slam is allowed in competition JJ).

 

[dza76wutang]

counter with spinning piledriver, Zangief/Mike Haggar style...

For real though I've only ever seen it attempted off of a collar tie in no-gi, or high lapel grips with the gi. If you know he's a flying armbar guy, you be proactive and just not let him grip up. If he does grip up, keeping your back strong and pushing him down/away will result in him butt dropping but you not going down with him in the armbar.

 

[kidrobot]

when you feel hit about to do it move the arm being arm barred down towards his waist and go for a double leg... this is much easier without a gi.

 

[RJ Green]

block the leg they're trying to go over your head with your free hand and drop them on their head.

 

[Steven H.]

I'd say to keep the elbows in, and avoid the collar tie. I know as soon as the collar tie is in i go for it. Actually got me one in grapplers quest last weekend.

 

[Higus]

Thanks to everyone, but I was thinking more along the lines of counter attacks rather than defense. I should reword the title!

 

[Lopes]

Counter attack? Drop him on his head.

 

[rarmonio8920]

I would think the counter-attack is simply to defend the armbar and take advantage of the open guard and pass. The times I've tried flying armbar in competition, my opponent was freaked out that I tried the move on him and immediately sat back, not engaging me... I would've been in a disadvantageous position if he immediately tried to pass because my armbar attempt was a bit sloppy.