BJJ Submission Only Rules | BJJ App Wiki
☰Contents
- Common Sub-Only Formats
- EBI Overtime Rules
- FAQ
- Subscribe to BJJ Wiki Newsletter
- Related Techniques
- Common Mistakes in Submission Only Rules
- Rushing the Setup
- Using Strength Over Technique
- Skipping Drilling
- Ignoring Defensive Reactions
- Training Tips for Submission Only Rules
- Shadow Drill at Full Speed
- Use a Skilled Partner
Submission only BJJ rules: how sub-only events work, overtime formats, EBI rules, Polaris format, and strategic differences from points.
Submission only (sub-only) BJJ removes points entirely — win by submission or overtime. This format rewards pure finishing ability and eliminates stall tactics common in points competition.
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Common Sub-Only Formats
| Format | Regular Time | Overtime | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| EBI (Eddie Bravo Invitational) | 10 min | Overtime (spider web or back take) | EBI series |
| Polaris | 20 min | Overtime (back/spider web) | Polaris events |
| WNO | 15 min | Overtime then judge decision | Who's Number One |
| ADCC sub-only rules | Overtime format varies | Penalties only if no sub | ADCC trials |
EBI Overtime Rules
| Starting Position | Goal | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Spider web (armbar position) | Escape fastest | Faster escape time wins |
| Back take (hooks in) | Submit or defender escapes fastest | Submission or faster escape |
FAQ
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Related Techniques
Common Mistakes in Submission Only Rules
Rushing the Setup
Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.
Using Strength Over Technique
Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.
Skipping Drilling
Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.
Ignoring Defensive Reactions
Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.
Training Tips for Submission Only Rules
Shadow Drill at Full Speed
Perform the technique slowly, then progressively increase to competition speed while maintaining crisp mechanics. Video yourself to catch form breakdowns.
Use a Skilled Partner
Training with a partner who can give realistic resistance and honest feedback accelerates technical development more than repetitions with a passive uke.
Isolate Weak Phases
Break the technique into phases and identify which phase breaks down under pressure. Spend disproportionate drilling time on that specific phase.
Compete in Tournaments
Competition reveals real weaknesses that controlled training obscures. Even white belts benefit from early competitive experience.
More Questions
What are the primary differences between submission-only and traditional BJJ rulesets?
Submission-only rulesets eliminate points for sweeps, takedowns, and positional control. The sole objective is to force a tap from your opponent, leading to a faster pace and a greater emphasis on offensive pressure and submission hunting. Time limits are often extended or removed entirely in submission-only matches.
How does the strategy change for a submission-only match compared to a point-based match?
In submission-only, you can't rely on accumulating points to win. This means you must be more aggressive in seeking submissions from the outset and be willing to take more risks. Defensive strategies also shift, as you need to be constantly aware of submission threats rather than just maintaining dominant positions.
What are the common pitfalls for grapplers transitioning to submission-only rules?
A common pitfall is becoming too defensive and waiting for the opponent to make a mistake, which can lead to a stalemate. Another issue is neglecting submission defense, as opponents will be actively looking for finishes. Grapplers might also struggle with the extended time if they are used to the quicker pace of point-based matches.
Common BJJ Problems & FAQ
To avoid hyperextension, immediately drive your hips down and towards your opponent's hip on the side of the trapped arm, creating a wedge with your shoulder. Simultaneously, rotate your trapped shoulder inward, keeping your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle to prevent the joint from straightening.
To effectively set up an armbar against a larger opponent, focus on controlling their posture by pulling their head down with your feet on their hips, creating a tight guard. Then, use your hips to shrimp out and isolate one arm, ensuring your knees are tight around their head and shoulder to prevent them from posturing back up.
To defend the kimura, immediately tuck your chin to your chest and drive your shoulder down towards your opponent's hip, creating a stable base. Simultaneously, use your free arm to grip your own bicep, forming a strong frame that prevents your opponent from rotating your shoulder joint.