Master BJJ butterfly guard sweeps: the basic lift, hook sweep, Homer Simpson, and why butterfly guard works equally well in gi and no-gi.
Butterfly guard is one of the few guards that works equally well in gi and no-gi β it uses underhooks and hooks, not cloth grips. Developed and mastered by Marcelo Garcia, butterfly guard is the entry point to half guard, single leg X, and back takes.
| Sweep | Direction | Key Trigger |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Hook Sweep | Toward them (they post) | Lift one hook, drive underhook shoulder |
| Double Underhook Lift | Straight back (both hooks) | Grab both sleeves/wrists, lift simultaneously |
| Homer Simpson | Away (they lean forward) | Fall to side, extend hooks to roll them over |
| Back Take (over/under) | Behind them | Underhook + hook, limp arm to back |
Weekly techniques, tips and updates
One of the most common errors is allowing the hips to flatten to the mat, which eliminates frames and makes sweeps ineffective. Keep active hip engagement at all times.
Grips are the foundation of guard work. Failing to break or establish grips early puts you at a structural disadvantage before any technique begins.
Pausing before initiating sweeps or submissions signals your opponent. Combine setups and attacks in smooth, continuous motion.
Allowing your partner to establish a strong, upright posture neutralizes most guard attacks. Prioritize posture disruption with collar, sleeve, or wrist control.
Get the free BJJ White Belt Guide plus technique breakdowns, training tips & exclusive content every week. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Get Free Access βMaintaining tight hips and framing with your arms are crucial. Actively use your hooks to prevent them from getting their hips to the mat and establishing a strong base.
A common mistake is not using your hooks effectively to control your opponent's base. Another is to overextend and lose your connection, giving them an opportunity to pass.
Once you've swept your opponent, you can immediately look to secure a dominant position like side control or mount. From there, you can set up submissions like armbars, kimuras, or chokes.