Alias · Guard

Overhook half guard

Also known as Octopus Guard — the canonical term used on this site.

Training background: when entered from half guard specifically

Half guard with overhook upper-body grip

Overhook half guard is the configuration name for the octopus guard — combining the half-guard leg-trap with an overhook upper-body grip on the opponent’s near arm.

Etymology. “Overhook” specifies the upper-body grip; “half guard” specifies the leg-position. The compound predominates in instructional contexts that emphasise the structural composition over the metaphorical “octopus” name.

Mechanics. The overhook plus half-guard combination produces multiple controlling connections — the trapped leg, the overhooked arm, and the chest contact close the position around the opponent’s posture.

Cross-reference. “Octopus guard” is the canonical name. Full mechanical coverage on Octopus Guard.