Fighting Action

I've made several posts about real self defense compared to what some people think might work. When one of the participants is trained in jiu-jitsu, the fight sequence actually becomes repetitive... almost to the point of being boring. Here is how it usually takes place:


Standing
The jiu-jitsu fighter maintains distance, and closes the distance when the time is right. The other fighter often tries unsuccessfully to punch or kick. The jiu-jitsu fighter executes a takedown - usually a leg trip (kosoto gari) and often lands on top in a dominant position.

Alternately, the fight goes to the ground in a different manner (sometimes, the jiu-jitsu fighter will pull guard) and the jiu-jitsu fighter is on his back, and uses the guard to stay safe from punches.

Rarely, the jiu-jitsu fighter will get caught in a guillotine attempt - one of the most common, basic, and instinctive holds an untrained person will try. 


Ground Stage 1 - positioning
Typically, the jiu-jitsu fighter is in a dominant position, and will work his way to the mount. From there, the opponent often turns, and the jiu-jitsu fighter takes the back.

Alternately, the jiu-jitsu fighter is working from the guard, and maneuvers to the mount or directly to the back.

The jiu-jitsu fighter caught in a guillotine will most likely be on top, and will escape the attempt with a combination of positioning, patience, technique, and (occasionally) a few well-aimed rib strikes. The jiu-jitsu fighter then takes the mounted position, and proceeds from there.


Ground Stage 2 - the finish
Typically, the jiu-jitsu fighter will be on the opponent's back, and will secure a rear naked choke (hadaka jime). The opponent taps out or passes out.

Alternately, the jiu-jitsu fighter's attempts to sweep from the guard are unsuccessful, so he will apply a triangle choke (sankaku jime). Rarely, you will see a straight arm lock from guard (juji gatame).


Finishes
In fights or matches between a jiu-jitsu fighter, and someone who lacks jiu-jitsu training (they might be a black belt in karate or kung fu, etc.), the most common finishes are, in order:
The single most common finish is the rear naked choke (hadaka jime).
Second most common finish would be the triangle (sankaku jime).
A distinct third option is the straight arm lock (juji gatame) - sometimes applied from the top, sometimes from guard.
The guillotine choke is often used when the situation is correct, and is fourth most common.
The Kimura arm lock (ude garami) from guard is fifth, but is rare.
The Americana arm lock (ude garami) from top (mount or side) is sixth, and is very rarely seen.

Other finishes do exist, but are most commonly used in matches between jiu-jitsu fighters. So rare to see are these, that I do not teach them to beginner ranks.


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