TLDR
- Islam Makhachev demonstrated a new submission called the ‘oxygen cylinder’ during training in Dagestan
- The technique is a variation of a head-and-arm choke where he covers the opponent’s mouth with his forearm
- His training partner tapped almost immediately when caught in the submission
- The move appears to be legal under current UFC unified rules as it doesn’t involve finger insertion
- Makhachev is currently the UFC welterweight champion after defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322
Sources: Yardbarker | Fight Sports TV | Bloody Elbow
UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has been working on a new submission technique during training sessions in Dagestan. A video shared by Red Corner MMA shows the champion demonstrating what he calls the ‘oxygen cylinder’ choke on a training partner.
The submission appears to be a variation of a head-and-arm choke with a unique twist. Makhachev uses his forearm to cover his opponent’s mouth while applying pressure, restricting both air and blood flow.
In the training footage, Makhachev’s partner tapped almost instantly after being caught in the hold. The combination of pressure and having his mouth covered made it impossible to escape, according to the training partner.
Makhachev Says He’s Already Used the Technique
When another fighter asked about the submission, Makhachev revealed it wasn’t entirely new to his arsenal. “It’s not new, I’ve caught some people with it already,” the champion said during the training session.
The technique builds on Makhachev’s reputation for innovative grappling. He has previously submitted top fighters like Dustin Poirier, Renato Moicano, and Charles Oliveira during his historic lightweight title run.
Makhachev made history as the lightweight division’s most successful defending champion before moving up to welterweight. He captured his second world title last year by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.
Questions About Legality Under UFC Rules
Some fans have questioned whether the ‘oxygen cylinder’ choke would be legal in actual competition. Under the UFC’s unified rules, the technique appears to fall within acceptable parameters.
Chokes that restrict air or blood flow are allowed in MMA as long as they don’t involve other fouls. The key distinction is that Makhachev doesn’t insert his fingers into his opponent’s mouth, which would be considered fish hooking and is illegal.
The move works by using forearm pressure to obstruct the airway while simultaneously applying the traditional head-and-arm choke mechanics. This appears to be a modification of Makhachev’s signature short-arm D’Arce choke.
Makhachev has not announced his next fight or confirmed when he plans to return to the octagon. The champion continues training in Dagestan with his team as he prepares for his next title defense.
The welterweight champion has built his career on constantly adding new elements to his ground game. His willingness to develop and refine techniques has helped him become one of the most dominant grapplers in UFC history.
