Drop Seoi Nage, or “Drop Shoulder Throw,” is a powerful judo and jujitsu technique where you drop your body low to throw your opponent over your shoulder. This variation of Seoi Nage relies on speed, timing, and the ability to drop your center of gravity beneath your opponent’s, making it effective even against larger opponents. Here’s a step-by-step description:

1. Establish a Grip: Start by securing a grip on your opponent’s gi. Typically, you’ll have one hand gripping their sleeve at the elbow and the other hand gripping the collar or lapel near their shoulder. These grips give you control over their upper body and help in pulling them into the throw.
2. Break Their Balance: Begin by pulling your opponent forward slightly with your sleeve grip, unbalancing them onto their toes. At the same time, push or pull with your lapel grip to further break their posture and bring their weight onto your shoulders.
3. Step In and Drop: Step in towards your opponent, bringing your lead foot between their feet while simultaneously turning your back to them. As you turn, drop your body sharply by bending your knees, lowering your center of gravity below your opponent’s hips. Your back should be pressed tightly against their torso, with your hips lower than theirs. At this point, you can either drop to your knees for a lower, more powerful throw or remain on your feet for a quicker, more fluid execution. The choice between dropping to your knees or staying on your feet depends on your preference, your opponent’s size, and the situation at hand.
4. Position Your Arm: As you drop, pull their arm (the one you are holding by the sleeve) across your body and under your armpit. Your other hand, gripping their lapel, should pull downwards to help rotate their upper body over your shoulder.
5. Execute the Throw: With your hips low and your opponent’s weight loaded onto your back, use your legs to drive upwards and forwards, lifting their feet off the ground. As you rise, continue to rotate your upper body, causing your opponent to flip over your shoulder and be thrown onto the mat.
6. Follow Through: After the throw, maintain control of their arm and be ready to follow them to the ground, transitioning into a dominant position such as kesa-gatame (scarf hold) or side control.
7. Secure the Position: Once on the ground, immediately secure your position to prevent any counter-attacks or escapes. Keep control of their arm and upper body to maintain your dominance.

Drop Seoi Nage is a highly effective throw, particularly when you can use your opponent’s momentum against them. The key to success with this technique lies in the sharp drop in your hips and the ability to load their weight fully onto your back, making it a go-to move in both judo and jujitsu competitions.