UCHI MATA (INNER THIGH THROW)

Uchi mata is one of the most celebrated judo throws and one of the most effective takedowns when integrated into BJJ. The technique uses the attacker's lifting leg threaded between the opponent's legs combined with simultaneous upper-body rotation to throw the opponent forward over the attacker's back. The technique requires substantial commitment and timing and is one of the highest-rated throws in international judo competition.

The mechanics begin with the attacker establishing upper-body grips (sleeve and lapel in gi, or collar tie and underhook in no-gi). The attacker steps the lead foot deep between the opponent's feet, simultaneously turning the body 180 degrees so that the attacker's back is against the opponent's front. The non-lead leg lifts between the opponent's legs, threading deep into the opponent's inner thigh — the 'inner thigh' that gives the technique its name. Simultaneously the attacker pulls down with the upper-body grips and lifts upward with the lifting leg. The combined upper-body pull and leg-lift produce the rotational throw that flips the opponent over the attacker's back.

Uchi mata has been integrated into BJJ from judo and remains one of the most-respected takedowns when executed correctly. Notable practitioners include various judo-rooted BJJ competitors. The technique pairs particularly well in IBJJF gi competition where the gi grips support the upper-body pull required. Defensively uchi mata is countered by maintaining strong base and avoiding extended grip exchanges, by stepping back when the attacker initiates the entry, or by establishing whizzer on the lifting-side arm to disrupt the rotation.