When you train Jiu-Jitsu, facing a wrestler can be a daunting task. They have great grappling conditioning, are very scrappy, have great base, and are very aggressive.

Wrestlers have strength, explosion and body control like no other type of grappler. Wrestler can decide where to take the fight, either standing or take it to the ground.

It’s no surprise that the majority of UFC champions came from wrestling. Wrestlers are to be respected BUT but they don’t have to be a living nightmare for Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, because just like every grappling style out there, they do have some massive weaknesses which we can exploit.

Taking down a good wrestler is one thing, but how about once you are on the ground with them?

Effective Strategies for BJJ Practitioners Against Wrestlers

In the video “What BJJ Guys Should Do Against Wrestlers In Jiu Jitsu” , Dan Vallimont, a two-time All-American Division One wrestler, shares insights on strategies that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners can use when facing wrestlers. His experience in both wrestling and BJJ offers a unique perspective on this topic.

Key Strategies:

1. **Leg-Based Submissions:**
Dan points out that wrestlers, accustomed to takedowns and ground control, are often less familiar with defending against leg-based submissions. He states, “Wrestlers who are really good at getting takedowns…aren’t used to people looking for leg-based submissions.” He emphasizes the effectiveness of “heel hooks, ankle locks, knee bars” and similar techniques.

2. **Using Knee Shields:**
Wrestlers find it frustrating when BJJ practitioners persistently use knee shields. Dan describes this as, “People that are good at just getting that knee shield in and just continuing to bring that knee back in.” This strategy can be effective in preventing a wrestler from gaining control and passing the guard.

3. **Positional Control and Underhooks:**
Dan advises BJJ practitioners to exploit positions that are uncomfortable for wrestlers. He mentions the effectiveness of “going underneath,” using positions like butterfly guard, one-leg X guard, and others. This approach puts wrestlers in unfamiliar territory, making it harder for them to apply their typical techniques.

“Wrestlers don’t want to be in those positions… I want to be able to get my hands on and to do that my legs have to get somewhat close…”

4. **Focus on Chokes:**
“Focus a lot on chokes,” advises Dan, noting that wrestlers are prone to getting caught in guillotines and triangles due to their shooting style. He explains that wrestlers often shoot with their head exposed, making them vulnerable to these submissions.

“A lot of guillotines with wrestlers who shoot with their head on the outside and they’re just not very… they don’t pay as much attention to like their neck being out…”

Dan’s insights provide valuable tactics for BJJ practitioners looking to counter the strengths of wrestlers. By focusing on these strategies, BJJ athletes can level the playing field against their wrestling counterparts.

Use front headlocks and counter wrestling systems to shut down wrestlers and secure dominant positions and submissions with Craig Jones.

• Craig Jones is one of the best grapplers on Earth, with dominant victories against elite competition using these same tactics and techniques.
• Kill the wrestling game with these lessons on how to exploit weaknesses in takedown positions and get the advantage for submissions like the anaconda, peruvian neckie, darce, and more!