This MixedMartialArts.com effort seeks to understand what really works, not by watching combat sports in the arena, but by studying what happens outside the arena, on the streets, or in this case, on the mats. If you enjoyed it, check out more stories on:
•Jiu-Jitsu
•Martial Arts on The Street
•Dojo Storms
Under normal circumstances, choking out UFC fighter Ryan Hall is extraordinarily hard to do. After all, Hall is a decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, who has successfully made the transition to fighting in the UFC after winning ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ Season 22.
However, this video sees Hall in a non-competitive situation. “The Wizard” had invited another highly respected grappler, Valerie ‘Valhalla’ Worthington, to give a seminar to students at his Fifty/50 academy in Virginia.
Hall was a willing partner as Worthington showed the students how to defend against a guillotine choke while in an opponent’s guard. Unfortunately for Hall, Valhalla’s shoulder pressure during the technique proved to be too much, and as he was too polite to interrupt her detailed breakdown, she ended up inadvertently choking him out!
Apparently oblivious to what was happening, despite a snoring sound suddenly emerging from Hall, Worthington continued explaining the move until a student quietly informed her, Ryan’s unconscious. Mortified, ‘Valhalla’ released the hold immediately and raised her hand to her mouth in shock.
The students thought it was hilarious though, and seconds later Hall sprang back to life, unsure what had just happened, but taking it all in good spirits.
That technique works, man! one student then quipped enthusiastically, which sparked more laughter. What a great way to treat your host.
Worthington winced.
There’s no shame in being choked out by ‘Valhalla’ though, as she’s a BJJ black belt herself, and has won the Worlds as a purple belt and the PanAms as a brown belt in the brown/black belt division.
In a recent Reddit Q&A, Worthington said Hall had been a great sport about it, despite the video appearing online.
She also revealed that it had been her first ever seminar, and as such had been a big learning experience. Worthington has since gone on to become a highly respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teacher and published author.
Students of realistic striking arts are keenly aware of how hard it is knock someone out, and thus should appreciate all the more the remarkable power of jiu-jitsu. Imagine being able to put someone to sleep – SAFELY – by accident. That is why regardless of your martial arts discipline, jiu-jitsu is a great addition.
