Side Control - UFC/MMA
Side Control is one of the most advantageous positions in the UFC. The fighter in the top position can exert tremendous pressure with their body weight, strike with elbows and short punches, and transition to even more dominant positions like mount or north-south. It's also an excellent platform for attempting submissions such as kimuras, Americana, and various chokes. Being in Side Control is highly disadvantageous, as it's difficult to get back to your feet, and judges clearly penalize fighters who find themselves in this unfavorable position.
Side Control
Demian Maia was a master of Side Control in the UFC: once he achieved this position, he suffocated opponents with constant pressure and transitions to submissions, making escape nearly impossible.
Side Control & Mount
Mount is the natural progression from Side Control, an even more dominant position. From Side Control, many fighters look to advance to mount for greater control and striking power. Mount.
FAQ - Side Control
How do you achieve Side Control?
Typically, you achieve it after a successful guard pass, following a takedown that bypasses the guard, or after a scramble. It's the most common dominant position after a guard pass in the UFC.
How do you escape from Side Control?
Main options include creating space with your hips (shrimping or hip escaping) to recover guard, using a bridge and roll to attempt a reversal, or creating a frame with your arms to get back to your feet.
