Though perhaps not as exotic or fear-inspiring as the dreaded heel hook, the kneebar is one of the most versatile leglocks in jiu-jitsu. It’s a submission that can be finished from top while passing, set up from a variety of different guards, and it's legal in the gi.  

There are also far fewer kneebar specialists than other leglocks, but several names crop up again and again on the "best-of lists" including  Bernardo Faria, Gabriel Arges, Nathiely de Jesus, and Claudio Clasans among others – and we're happy to say we've got the matches to back up these claims.

Hit the links below to watch our favorite kneebar finishes from competition and continue on for further analysis plus technique and training videos. 

Our Favorite Competition Kneebar Finishes 

• Victor Hugo Defeats The Legendary Cyborg
• Tex Johnson 15 Second Kneebar At ADCC Trials
• Queen Of The Kneebar Nathiely de Jesus finishes World Champ Claudia Do Val
• Claudio Calasans subs Romulo Barral 2016 World Pro
• Patrick Gaudio Earns First European CHampionship Title Via Kneebar 
• Jay Jay Thomas With The Upset Over Jonnatas Gracie 2019 Pans
• Luiza Monteiro Hits Slick  Kneebar From Spider Guard
• Andressa Cintra def. Veronica Messina 3CG III
• Erberth Santos Brutally Finishes Dan Borovic At Copa Podio Middleweight GP
• Gabriel Arges Submits Claudio Calasans 2016 Worlds
• Luiz Panza With The Quick Tap At the  2016 World Championships

Kneebar Studies & Breakdowns

Shawn William's Analyzes Erberht Santos Savage Kneebar

Kneebar From Lapel X-Guard Study

Our Favorite Lapel Guard Technique Videos

Kneebar From Spider Guard From Braulio Estima

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• Marcelo Mafra Halfguard Kneebar
• Dillon Danis Backstep Kneebar
• Jamil Lasso X Guard Kneebar

EVERY Kneebar Training Video From Our Archives