Complete Bottom Game System | Guard Mastery

Published Mar 16, 2026 • Beginner-Intermediate

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Contents

What is a Bottom Game?

Your bottom game is your ability to attack from positions where your opponent is on top: guard, mount escape, bottom side control. A strong bottom game makes you dangerous even when behind.

Guard Hierarchy

Closed Guard: Maximum control, best for beginners
Open Guard: Requires more technique, higher risk/reward
Half Guard: Transitional position, strong defensive base
De La Riva: Advanced DLR hooks and sweeps

Guard Retention Fundamentals

1

Establish Grips

Control their sleeves, collar, or pants.

2

Create Space

Use your feet and hips to create separation from their weight.

3

Off-Balance Them

Break their posture and balance constantly.

4

Attack or Sweep

From good guard, you're always one grip away from a sweep or submission.

The Sweep System

Sweeps transition you to top position when your guard is being passed. Master the fundamental sweeps: scissor sweep, flower sweep, hip bump, and leg drag sweep.

Guard Submissions

Armbar from closed guard
Triangle choke from closed/open guard
Omoplata from open guard
Guillotine choke from guard

Pro Tip: A strong bottom game requires patience. Don't rush sweeps—set them up through hip movement and off-balancing, then finish when they commit to defending.

Defense from Bottom

Bottom positions require constant activity. Keep moving your hips, constantly threaten with sweeps/submissions, and never let them settle into heavy pressure.

A complete bottom game makes you unpassable and dangerous. Build it and you'll win matches from any position.