Americana

The Americana, also known as the keylock, paintbrush, ude garami, or hara gatame, is a versatile shoulder lock submission commonly applied from dominant top positions like side control or mount. To execute the Americana, isolate the opponent's arm and pin their wrist to the mat. Thread your other arm under their elbow and create a figure-four grip by clasping your own wrist. Once the grip is established, slowly elevate the opponent's elbow towards the ceiling while keeping their wrist pinned to the ground. This combination of movements applies significant pressure to the shoulder joint, forcing a submission. The americana may also be referred to as an arm crush or shoulder crush in submission grappling circles.