Top Game Control

Control from top positions. Transitioning btwn dominant spots & finishing w/ high-percentage submissions.

Flow outline

  1. Top Game

    • Most of the time 1. set dominant control from top positions 2. keep pressure and weight distribution 3. Transition between positions based on opponent reactions 4. Create submission opportunities through positional advancement

  2. Open Guard

    • From here, 1. Control opponent's legs and hips from standing 2. Use grips to manage distance and posture 3. Transition to passing positions when opportunities arise 4. keep balance and base against opponent's attacks

  3. Half Guard

    • Once set, 1. control opponent's upper body and one leg 2. use underhooks and crossface for pressure 3. transition to mount or back control 4. prevent opponent's guard recovery don’t force it

  4. Closed Guard

    • Usually 1. Control opponent's posture from bottom position 2. Break opponent's posture using grips and hip movement 3. Create opportunities for sweeps and submissions 4. Transition to open guard when opponent stands

  5. Turtle

    • 1. Defend from bottom turtle position 2. Use hand fighting to prevent attacks 3. Create opportunities to escape or recover guard 4. Transition to submissions when opponent makes mistakes

  6. Mount

    • If it shows up, 1. set high mount position with chest pressure 2. Control opponent's arms and head 3. Transition between high mount and S-mount 4. Attack with chokes and joint locks

  7. Back Mount

    • Key detail: 1. secure hooks and seatbelt control 2. control opponent's upper body and prevent escapes 3. transition between rear mount and crucifix 4. finish with rear naked choke or arm attacks

  8. North South

    • 1. Control opponent's head and shoulders 2. keep chest pressure and weight distribution 3. Transition to kimura trap or side control 4. Attack with chokes and shoulder locks Timing beats strength

  9. Side Control

    • 1. set crossface and underhook control 2. keep shoulder pressure and hip positioning 3. Transition to mount or knee on belly 4. Attack with kimura, americana, and chokes

  10. Knee On Belly

    • Usually 1. set knee pressure on opponent's solar plexus 2. Control opponent's far arm and collar 3. Transition to mount or arm bar 4. Attack with baseball bat choke and arm submissions

Branch conditions