π BJJ Open Guard Passing
Master BJJ open guard passing: torreando, leg weave, bullfighter and knee cut passes to defeat open guards.
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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.
Open Guard Pass Categories
| 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 |
Torreando Pass Step by Step
- Grip both pants at the knees or ankles.
- Push both legs to one side (right or left).
- Step around the legs to side control.
- Establish crossface and hip block simultaneously.
Passing Open Guard β Key Principles
- Kill grips first: strip sleeve or collar grips before attempting any pass.
- Move on the beat: pass in the same motion as the hip move, not after.
- Angle your base: never pass straight forward β pass on an angle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Common Mistakes in Open Guard Passing
Losing Hip Position
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.
Neglecting Grip Fighting
Grips are the foundation of guard work. Failing to break or establish grips early puts you at a structural disadvantage before any technique begins.
Telegraphing Attacks
Pausing before initiating sweeps or submissions signals your opponent. Combine setups and attacks in smooth, continuous motion.
Ignoring Posture Breaking
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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Get Free Access βMore Questions
How do I deal with an opponent's strong leg entanglement in open guard?
Focus on breaking their structure by attacking the hips and knees. Techniques like knee slices and leg drags are effective for clearing entanglements and establishing control.
What are the most common mistakes people make when passing open guard?
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.
How can I prevent my opponent from re-guarding after I've cleared their legs?
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.