Sprawl and Brawl System | Wrestling in BJJ
☰Contents
Learn the sprawl and brawl style: prevent takedowns and control standing. Top wrestling strategy for BJJ.
What is Sprawl and Brawl?
Sprawl and brawl is a fighting style that emphasizes controlling the standing position and preventing opponents from bringing the fight to the ground. It combines solid wrestling defense with aggressive clinch control.
Core Principles
- Stay standing: Prevent the takedown before it happens
- Maintain distance: Keep your opponent at arm's length
- Control the clinch: If they reach you, establish dominant arm control
- Strike if applicable: Use position to establish dominance
- Create space: Never let them tighten their grip
Setup Phases
Stay Mobile
Keep moving, don't stand flat-footed. Use footwork to stay just outside their reach.
Recognize the Shoot
Watch for level changes and forward momentum. Recognize shots early.
Sprawl Decisively
When they shoot, sprawl hard. Push your hips back and land them on their head/shoulders.
Control Their Posture
Maintain hand control on their back/shoulders to prevent them from resetting.
Clinch Control Details
When forced to engage in the clinch, use underhooks, whizzers, and head control. Keep your opponent's head down and prevent them from establishing a solid base.
Famous Practitioners
Several elite BJJ athletes use sprawl and brawl effectively: Anderson Silva pioneered this in MMA, while in pure BJJ, wrestlers like Craig Jones integrate these principles at the highest level.
Training Recommendations
- Develop strong wrestling conditioning
- Practice sprawl variations against different shot angles
- Work clinch control with training partners
- Build leg strength and hip mobility
- Sparring heavily at 60-70% intensity
Sprawl and brawl is an excellent style for grapplers who excel at standing control and preventing takedowns. If you enjoy controlling the clinch, this system will maximize your advantages.