Master BJJ open guard passing: torreando, leg weave, bullfighter and knee cut passes to defeat open guards.
Open guard passing requires reading the guard player's grips and hips and moving faster than they can react. This guide covers the most reliable open guard passes for gi and no-gi.
| Category | Passes | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Redirecting | Torreando, bullfighter | Both pants/ankle grips |
| Smashing | Leg weave, knee slice | HQ position + one leg control |
| Speed | Long step, backstep | Reading hip movement |
| Leg entanglement | Over-under pass, stack | Both legs stacked |
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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.
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A common mistake is trying to force a pass without establishing control or breaking the opponent's base. Overcommitting to a single pass attempt without adapting to their reactions also leads to failure.
Maintain constant pressure and forward weight as you pass, always looking to advance your hips. Simultaneously, use your arms and shoulders to control their hips and prevent them from re-establishing their guard.