The problem with Jiu Jitsu in MMA (and how to fix it)

Summary

This video critically examines the weaknesses of Jiu Jitsu in MMA. The host highlights how traditional Jiu Jitsu techniques, like the full guard, are often ineffective in the octagon, especially against wrestlers and high-level MMA fighters. The video argues for a shift toward more dynamic positions like half guard, particularly Z-guard, to mitigate damage and create offensive opportunities. It also stresses the importance of adapting submission techniques to be devastating in a high-pressure MMA environment. In conclusion, it calls on Jiu Jitsu practitioners transitioning to MMA to refine their game, focusing on high-level submissions and finishing fights, not just scoring points.

Takeaways

• 😀 Full guard is outdated in MMA and offers limited offensive options, with only a triangle submission being a realistic threat.
• 😀 Switching to half guard, especially Z-guard, improves positional control and offers more opportunities to attack or escape.
• 😀 Submissions in MMA need to be high-level and lethal, not just technical; fighters should focus on finishing, not scoring points.
• 😀 The submission game in MMA differs significantly from local tournaments, where fighters often tap quickly but UFC fighters are more resilient.
• 😀 UFC fighters won't tap unless a submission is perfectly executed; submissions must be locked in deeply for success.
• 😀 The key to success in MMA is transitioning from a sport-specific Jiu-Jitsu mindset to one that focuses on aggressive, finish-oriented grappling.
• 😀 Most MMA black belts lack the elite submission threat of top Jiu-Jitsu competitors, and need to improve their submission mechanics for higher success.
• 😀 High-level wrestlers often neutralize BJJ specialists in MMA, so Jiu-Jitsu practitioners need to focus on positional transitions and submission effectiveness.
• 😀 Positioning, such as using the knee shield in half guard, allows fighters to mitigate damage and work towards submissions or sweeps.
• 😀 The style of Jiu-Jitsu practiced by a fighter must align with MMA needs, focusing on the ability to finish opponents rather than win by points.
• 😀 Fighters should train submissions that can end a fight with a single mistake from the opponent, emphasizing finishing power over positional control.

Q & A

Why is full guard considered outdated in MMA?

Full guard is considered outdated in MMA because it limits offensive options and makes it difficult to sweep or submit opponents. The person on top, especially a skilled wrestler, can maintain control and deliver damaging strikes, while the person in full guard has fewer submission opportunities. Modern alternatives like half guard with a knee shield are more effective for controlling damage and setting up submissions.

What is the advantage of using half guard with a knee shield in MMA?

Half guard with a knee shield allows a fighter to maintain space, defend strikes, and create opportunities for movement and transitions. It mitigates the damage that would come from being flat on your back and offers more submission and positional control options, such as transitioning to leg entanglements or improving your position to wrestle.

Why do BJJ practitioners often struggle in MMA against wrestlers?

BJJ practitioners struggle against wrestlers in MMA because wrestlers typically have superior takedown defense and control, preventing BJJ fighters from getting the fight to the ground. When BJJ practitioners do manage to get to the ground, their submissions may not be as effective or deadly as they need to be, especially against opponents who have strong base and wrestling fundamentals.

What is the problem with the point-scoring style of BJJ in MMA?

The point-scoring style of BJJ, which focuses on gaining advantages and maintaining control rather than finishing submissions, doesn't translate well to MMA. In MMA, a fighter needs to secure finishes, not just points, and often faces opponents who are better at scrambling and defending. Relying on point-based tactics leaves little room for decisive action against skilled wrestlers or strikers.

Why is Ryan Hall considered a dangerous fighter in MMA?

Ryan Hall is considered dangerous in MMA because of his ability to execute deadly submissions with little warning. He is known for his fast transitions, especially with leg locks, which can instantly end a fight. His unique style of submission-based grappling makes him a threat even against opponents who might otherwise have superior wrestling or striking skills.

What is the main reason BJJ submissions don't work as effectively in the UFC compared to local tournaments?

BJJ submissions don't work as effectively in the UFC because fighters in the promotion are less likely to tap out unless they're in extreme danger. Unlike local tournaments, where competitors might tap to avoid injury or to protect themselves, UFC fighters have a higher tolerance for pain and will often try to power through submissions, requiring BJJ practitioners to apply submissions with flawless technique to ensure they result in a tap.

How does the mentality of UFC fighters affect the effectiveness of BJJ submissions?

The mentality of UFC fighters affects BJJ submissions because they are less likely to tap out quickly, even when in significant pain or danger. This resistance means that a BJJ fighter must be precise and forceful with their submissions, ensuring that the technique is applied in a way that leaves no room for escape. If the submission isn't sunk deep or executed perfectly, the opponent might survive and escape.

What is the difference between submission grappling in MMA and submission grappling in local tournaments?

The primary difference between submission grappling in MMA and local tournaments is that in MMA, fighters are not as likely to tap due to the stakes of the fight—especially with a championship on the line. In local tournaments, competitors are more likely to tap early to avoid injury. In contrast, UFC fighters will often withstand significant pain and continue fighting, meaning BJJ submissions must be applied with greater precision and strength.

Why is it important for a BJJ practitioner in MMA to focus on finishing submissions rather than controlling points?

It is important for a BJJ practitioner in MMA to focus on finishing submissions because the ability to control points doesn't guarantee victory in a high-stakes environment like the UFC. Unlike in BJJ competitions, where a sweep or advantage might win a match, MMA fighters need to finish the fight decisively. Practicing for submissions that can end a fight ensures a higher chance of success against opponents who have strong wrestling or striking skills.

What should BJJ fighters do to improve their performance in MMA?

BJJ fighters looking to improve their performance in MMA should focus on applying deadly, finish-oriented submissions rather than relying on point-based strategies. They should also adapt their game to MMA by training more dynamic positions like half guard with knee shields and making their submissions extremely difficult to escape. Above all, they need to shift their mentality from winning by points to finishing fights.