Americana

A shoulder lock that internally rotates the arm using a figure-four grip from top position.

The americana (keylock) pins your opponent's wrist to the mat and uses a figure-four grip to lever their elbow upward while rotating their shoulder internally. It is most commonly applied from mount or side control where you have the weight advantage to keep their arm pinned. The americana is one of the first submissions taught because it introduces the concept of using leverage against a joint.

Position Flow