The debate surrounding the effectiveness of wrestling versus Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has been ongoing for years. Many argue that one is superior to the other, while others believe they are equally useful. In this post, we will explore some common myths about wrestling and BJJ in MMA, debunking them through practical examples and expert opinions.

The Myth: Wrestling is More Effective than BJJ in MMA

One of the most common arguments made against BJJ is that it is a โ€œground-basedโ€ art, meaning it focuses primarily on grappling from the ground. This leads many to believe that wrestling, which also involves grappling, is inherently more effective because it can be used both on and off the mat.

However, this myth has been debunked by numerous MMA fighters who have successfully transitioned from wrestling to BJJ. Take, for example, former UFC champion Georges St-Pierre (GSP). GSP was a collegiate wrestler before transitioning to BJJ, and he credits his grappling skills with helping him win several titles in the Octagon.

Another example is Ben Askren, a professional wrestler who has successfully transitioned to MMA. Askren holds a black belt in BJJ and has used his grappling skills to finish numerous opponents in the cage.

The Myth: BJJ is More Effective than Wrestling in MMA

On the other hand, some argue that BJJ is more effective because it focuses on submission holds, which can be difficult for wrestlers to defend against. This myth has been debunked by several MMA fighters who have successfully used wrestling to counter BJJ opponents.

One example is former UFC champion Ronda Rousey. Rousey was a collegiate wrestler before transitioning to MMA, and she credits her wrestling background with helping her defend against several BJJ-based submission attempts in the cage.

Another example is current UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. Usman has used his wrestling skills to successfully counter numerous BJJ opponents in the Octagon.

The Myth: Wrestling and BJJ are Mutually Exclusive Skills

Many people believe that if you focus on one discipline, you will automatically be proficient in the other. This myth has been debunked by several MMA fighters who have successfully transitioned between wrestling and BJJ.

One example is former UFC champion Matt Serra. Serra was a collegiate wrestler before transitioning to BJJ, and he credits his wrestling background with helping him improve his grappling skills in BJJ.

Another example is current UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabib has used both wrestling and BJJ to successfully finish opponents in the Octagon, demonstrating that these disciplines are not mutually exclusive.

The Myth: Wrestling is More Valuable than BJJ in MMA

Some argue that wrestling is more valuable because it can be used to control opponents on the ground or in the clinch. While this is true, BJJ has its own set of benefits that make it just as valuable in MMA.

One example is former UFC champion Demian Maia. Maia was a collegiate wrestler before transitioning to BJJ, and he credits his wrestling background with helping him improve his grappling skills in BJJ.

Another example is current UFC welterweight contender Jorge Masvidal. Masvidal has used both wrestling and BJJ to successfully finish opponents in the Octagon, demonstrating that these disciplines are not mutually exclusive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the effectiveness of wrestling versus BJJ in MMA has been ongoing for years. However, through practical examples and expert opinions, we have debunked several common myths about these disciplines. Wrestling is not inherently more effective than BJJ, nor is BJJ more effective because it focuses on submission holds. Both disciplines are valuable in their own right, and many successful MMA fighters have successfully transitioned between them.

Ultimately, the best discipline for an MMA fighter depends on their individual strengths and weaknesses. Whether you choose to focus on wrestling or BJJ, remember that both disciplines can be used to improve your overall grappling skills in MMA.