The Main Stand-up Fighting Strategy For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) In A Real Fight Is:
Closing The Distance is what a jiu-jitsu stylist should perform if caught in the punching or kicking ranges of a fight. The basic philosophy is always to move backwards to avoid the fight, and not forward is the best defense. Let the person be drawn into a closer range and then clinch using a kick to the opponent’s front leg or a punch to step forward.
Remember forcing the clinch by moving forward first is a good way to get hit. However, there are ways to force the clinch. If this strategy is used, do not stop moving forward until you clinch the opponent. Stopping after you attempt to force the clinch is another good way to get hit. Important elements to remember during the attempt to close the distance are:
Take the on-guard position if the fight has started, close your teeth, and stay relaxed and remember to protect your face (your chin is “the button” a boxing term) by keeping your hands up.
Step backward when the person is taking a step in, and if you can, measure with your front hand the distance between you and the opponent.
Use the low kick to the hip or lower to the front knee of the opponent as he steps in to close the distance.
A fake jab punch is effective also to cause a reaction of the opponent.
If you are stepping forward to close the distance, protect your face and do not stop until to reach your opponent and clinch him holding around both of the opponent’s arms, one arm or holding under both.
Also, try passing the person’s front jab punch using your front hand to parry the punch to the side to the back clinch. This was taught.
Effective grabs/holds you can use to clinch the opponent are around his waist are:
a) holding your own wrist with your opposite hand on top; b) grabbing your four
fingers together with the thumbs on top & bottom position.
Also Read “The Clinch” A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fighter’s Best Friend!
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