Kuchiki taoshi

Alternate names: Single leg takedown

Technique Description

Kuchiki Taoshi, often referred to as the 'Single Leg Takedown' or 'Dead Tree Drop', is a hand technique that focuses on taking the opponent down by attacking their leg. Unlike traditional single-leg takedowns that involve lifting and driving, Kuchiki Taoshi emphasizes collapsing the opponent's leg and causing them to fall. To perform this technique, establish a grip on the opponent's upper body, typically the collar and sleeve. As they step forward or put weight on their lead leg, quickly drop to one knee and reach for their ankle or lower leg with both hands. Using a combination of pulling, twisting, and collapsing motions, force their leg to buckle and drive them to the ground. The technique's effectiveness lies in its swiftness and the unexpected angle of attack. Due to being considered a 'double handed leg reap' this technique was made illegal in competition and therefore isn't seen frequently in modern competition.