## Baratoplata Technique The Baratoplata is a shoulder lock submission that can catch opponents off guard due to its unconventional angle and application. It involves manipulating the shoulder joint similar to an omoplata but with a modified setup and execution. This technique can be utilized both offensively and defensively, often used from the bottom position in the guard. It’s named after Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner Rafael "Barata" Freitas, who is credited with popularizing the move. ### Position - **Position:** Closed Guard, Open Guard, Butterfly Guard - **Top/Bottom:** Bottom ### Japanese Name - **Japanese Name:** N/A ### Step-by-Step Instructions **Starting from Closed Guard**: 1. **Control Posture:** Begin by breaking your opponent's posture and controlling their arm or sleeves with a tight grip. 2. **Arm Positioning:** Use your right hand to grip your opponent's left tricep, ensuring their arm is across your body. With your left hand, grip around the back of their right elbow. 3. **Hip Escape:** Use a hip escape to slide your hips out slightly to the right, creating an angle while maintaining control of your opponent's arms. 4. **Leg Over Head:** Swing your left leg over and across their shoulders in a fluid motion, placing your left leg's knee behind their neck. This movement mirrors the entry of an omoplata but aims for a modified control on the shoulder. 5. **Lock the Arm:** Focus on securing an underhook with your right arm on your opponent's isolated arm to prevent them from pulling it free. 6. **Pressure and Torque:** With your right hand securely underhooked, use the leverage from your left leg to press their shoulder diagonally downward towards the mat. 7. **Trap the Wrist:** As you lock your knees together, control your opponent’s wrist (if possible) with your right hand to tighten the submission. 8. **Finish the Submission:** Create running pressure by extending your hips forward, rotating the opponent's shoulder for the submission. Focus your leverage on elevating their elbow while keeping their wrist fixed. 9. **Tap Verification:** As you apply the final pressure, always be cautious and escalate gradually to avoid injury, expecting an immediate tap from your opponent. ### Tips - Ensure tight grips throughout, as small gaps can allow your opponent to escape. - Proper hip movement and angle creation increase the success rate of this technique. - Maintain patience and methodical pressure rather than brute strength. ### Common Variations - The Baratoplata can also be transitioned into from an attacking series involving the kimura or an omoplata setup, making it a versatile addition to your game. This technique is both a surprise and a testament to the creativity within Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, showcasing how leverage and positioning can achieve effective submissions.