Zabit vs Aljo: Same leglock or different?
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At @ufc 228 there were two examples of a leglock from back control, @zabit_magomedsharipov and @funkmaster_ufc but was it the same submission?
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In my last post I hypothesized that Zabit’s finish was more of a hamstring strain than a typical kneebar. In my opinion Aljo’s variation was more of a modified kneebar. .
Traditional kneebars involve femur isolation to create hyperextension at the knee. Once Aljo had the foot trapped they appear to fall slightly to the side, which would create a varus force. The knee does not bend to the side, and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is the primary structure to prevent excessive varus motion at the knee. This hypothesis is supported when Aljo’s opponent instantly tapped and clutched the outside of his knee, where the LCL attaches.
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While the entry was the same I would argue that the finishing mechanics were different. As a martial artist I am fascinated with unorthodox finishes as the sport continues to evolve.