Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir recently shared his views on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Mir began by challenging the common perception that the goal of BJJ training is to make opponents tap out.
He explained that for him, submissions are a natural progression in grappling rather than the ultimate objective:
I don’t think you should train to make people tap.
To me, submissions like Armbars, Kimuras, Leg Locks – they’re just because it’s in my way.
It’s kind of like scoring a touchdown in a game. It’s not over with, but I’m upping the score in my favor.
Mir also highlighted the significance of safety and longevity in training – sharing his personal approach to avoiding unnecessary injuries:
I’ve never had anything broken in the gym, I’ve never had my knee popped, never anything because I tap when something feels uncomfortable.
In addition to discussing training philosophy, Mir addressed the precision and reliability of grappling compared to striking.
He explained that while striking carries an inherent element of unpredictability, submissions are far more controlled and technical:
When you strike, there’s an element of luck that you can’t control – but there’s no such thing as a “lucky Armbar”.
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