Pass - UFC/MMA
The guard pass is one of the most crucial skills in grappling as applied to MMA. When a fighter finds themselves in their opponent's guard, they must 'pass' the legs to reach more advantageous positions. There are numerous passing techniques: pressure pass, speed pass, toreando pass, and many others. In the UFC, guard passing is essential because being stuck in an opponent's guard is dangerous: submissions can be attempted, and judges do not favor fighters who remain passively in guard.
Pass
Khabib Nurmagomedov was a master at passing his opponents' guard, using constant pressure and methodical movements to maneuver past the legs and achieve dominant positions from which he could unleash his ground and pound.
Pass & Guard Pass
Guard Pass is the full term used to describe the action of passing guard. 'Pass' is the commonly used abbreviation in the MMA and BJJ world to refer to the same action. Guard Pass.
FAQ - Pass
What are the main types of guard passes?
The main types include the pressure pass (using weight to crush the legs), the speed pass (quickly maneuvering around the legs), the toreando (pushing the legs to the side), and the leg drag (pulling one leg across the body).
Does a guard pass score points in the UFC?
Yes, guard passing is positively evaluated by judges as it puts the fighter in a superior control position. When combined with strikes or submission attempts, it is even more highly valued in scoring.
