Statistics show that the majority of MMA gear fights will go to the ground at some point during the match. For this reason, it is absolutely essential that practitioners of this sport are competent at defending and attacking whilst positioned on the ground. The first step of ground fighting is actually taking the fight to the ground. The next step is controlling your opponent so that you’re always in an advantageous position. The final step is submitting your opponent with joint locks, chokes or ground striking.
Brazilian Jujitsu
Brazilian jujitsu employs clever body mechanics and leverage to control and submit an opponent. This form of fighting is credited largely to the Gracie family in Brazil, but has its roots in Japanese grappling martial arts. Jujitsu shares many techniques with the sport of Judo, which is why many competitors of Judo are now interested in training in MMA. Brazilian jujitsu allows a fighter to submit an opponent with joint locks or chokes. These techniques can be delivered from a variety of positions, allowing a skilled practitioner to attack even when their back is on the ground and their opponent is on top of them.opponent is on top of them.
Submission Wrestling
Submission wrestling is a term normally used to describe jujitsu when practiced without a gi (traditional uniform). This style of fighting is most compatible with MMA, because the clothing worn (shorts and a T-shirt or rash guard) is similar to what is allowed in MMA competitions. Without the long sleeves and pant legs of the gi, submission wrestlers must adapt their technique so that they can grapple without holding onto their opponent’s clothes. Submission wrestling is also sometimes used to refer to ‘catch wrestling’, which is a Western style of grappling.
Greco-Roman Wrestling
The Olympic sport of Greco-Roman wrestling has seen widespread adoption among MMA practitioners. This style of fighting is limited in its techniques, but teaches excellent takedown skills and defense. Greco-Roman wrestling also instructs a practitioner in how to control their opponent whilst in the clinch position or on the ground in top position. An MMA fighter with mastery over this technique can control where the fight takes place, and often has the upper hand during a fight.
Judo and Sambo
Judo is an Olympic sport that utilizes throws and leg trips to get an opponent to the ground. Furthermore, this style allows for chokes and joint locks to the arms to submit an opponent. Judo is normally practiced with a gi, but has been successfully adapted for MMA several notable fighters. Sambo is a Russian sport that does not allow for chokes, but is famous for its use of joint locks, particularly leg locks. Many Russian fighters employ sambo techniques to finish a fight whilst on the ground.
