Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Submission Wrestling have gained massive popularity across the globe. These sports are popular especially in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and grappling sports. Both disciplines emphasize grappling, submissions and ground control. However, they are not the same. In fact, BJJ and submission wrestling differ significantly in philosophy, technique, attire, scoring systems and competitive strategies.

It does not matter if you are new to grappling or an experienced martial artist looking to understand the nuances. This comprehensive guide will explore the top reasons why BJJ and submission wrestling are different. Read on to discover which one aligns with your goals—and why these distinctions matter.

1- The Attire: BJJ Gi vs. No-Gi Grappling

One of the most striking differences between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission wrestling is the attire.

BJJ Gi:

In traditional BJJ, practitioners wear a BJJ Gi. It is a thick cotton uniform that includes a jacket, pants and belt. The Gi plays a significant role in grappling exchanges. It can be used for controlling, choking and sweeping opponents. Techniques like collar chokes, lapel grips and sleeve control are unique to Gi-based BJJ.

Submission Wrestling:

Submission wrestling, also known as No-Gi grappling. It is practiced in rash guards, shorts and spats. Thus, offering no handles for your opponent to grip. The absence of the Gi means techniques must be faster, more athletic and heavily reliant on body control, underhooks, overhooks and clinch work rather than grip fighting.

In summary:

• BJJ Gi: Grip-based tactics, slower tempo.
• Submission Wrestling: Slippery, faster-paced, control-based movement.

2- Rules and Scoring Systems

BJJ Scoring:

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, matches are often point-based. Athletes score points for positional advancements such as:

• Takedowns (2 points)
• Guard passes (3 points)
• Mount and back control (4 points)

There are also penalties for stalling. Moreover, disqualifications can occur for illegal moves depending on belt level.

Submission Wrestling:

Submission wrestling focuses more on submission finishes than on positional control. While some tournaments have point systems (like ADCC), others are submission-only. The emphasis is on submitting the opponent rather than accumulating points. Stalling penalties exist. But positional hierarchy is often less valued.

In short:

• BJJ values position before submission.
• Submission Wrestling emphasizes submission over position.

3- Origins and Philosophies

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:

BJJ was developed in Brazil by the Gracie family. It is derived from judo and traditional Japanese jiu-jitsu. Its philosophy centers around technique, leverage and the ability of a smaller person to defend against a larger attacker. BJJ's focus is on self-defense, positional dominance and gradual control leading to a submission.

Submission Wrestling:

Submission wrestling evolved from a mixture of catch wrestling, freestyle wrestling, sambo and judo. Its roots are more closely tied to competitive grappling and MMA. The philosophy leans more toward finishing the fight as quickly as possible, often with dynamic submissions and aggressive pacing.

Core Difference:

• BJJ: Technical, methodical, defensive-first.
• Submission Wrestling: Aggressive, finish-oriented, offensive-first.

4- Grip Strategies and Techniques

The presence or absence of a Gi greatly affects the choice of techniques and strategies.

In BJJ with Gi:

• You will use grips on sleeves, collars and pants.
• Techniques such as the cross-collar choke, loop choke and spider guard are exclusive to BJJ Gi.
• Grip fighting is an essential part of the strategy.

In Submission Wrestling:

• Without a Gi, grips are based on overhooks, underhooks, neck ties and wrist control.
• The game becomes more athletic, emphasizing wrestling-style takedowns, explosive escapes, and dynamic scrambles.
• Guards like butterfly guard and leg entanglements are more common due to the slipperiness of the no-Gi attire.

5- Leg Lock Game

Leg locks have evolved dramatically and have become a central part of No-Gi submission wrestling.

In BJJ (especially Gi-based):

• Traditional schools often limit or even prohibit certain leg locks at lower belt levels.
• Heel hooks and reaping the knee are typically banned until black belt or No-Gi advanced divisions.

In Submission Wrestling:

• Leg locks—including heel hooks, toe holds and kneebars—are widely accepted.
• Competitors are trained to attack the lower body aggressively and defend accordingly.

Leg Lock Meta:

• BJJ Gi: More conservative, controlled leg lock progression.
• Submission Wrestling: Open and aggressive use of all leg submissions.

6- Takedown Approaches

In BJJ:

• Many BJJ practitioners start matches from the ground or pull guard.
• Judo-based throws are sometimes used due to the BJJ Gi allowing similar grips.

In Submission Wrestling:

• Wrestlers focus on double-leg takedowns, single legs, ankle picks and body locks.
• A strong emphasis is placed on top control and scrambling.

Key Insight:

• BJJ often accepts the bottom position for control and submissions.
• Submission Wrestling values top pressure and control after takedowns.

7- Training Objectives and Culture

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:

• Has a belt ranking system (white to black) and a strong focus on progression, lineage and community.
• Practitioners train both Gi and No-Gi, with many gyms offering both formats.
• The focus is on drilling, flow rolling and technical mastery.

Submission Wrestling:

• Lacks a traditional belt system.
• Performance is often measured by competition results rather than formal ranks.
• Training is highly competition-focused and intense. Thus, often involving more conditioning.

Cultural Split:

• BJJ: Emphasis on tradition, self-improvement and hierarchy.
• Submission Wrestling: Emphasis on performance, competition and adaptability.

8- Application in MMA

Both BJJ and submission wrestling are foundational for MMA fighters. But they bring different tools to the cage.

• BJJ (especially No-Gi) provides strong submission and guard game fundamentals.
• Submission Wrestling offers a smoother transition to MMA. It is due to its wrestling base, explosive scrambles and leg lock proficiency.

Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov leaned on submission wrestling. However, Demian Maia showcased world-class BJJ in MMA.

Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?

Understanding the differences between BJJ and submission wrestling can help you choose the best path for your grappling journey.

If you are drawn to structured learning, philosophy and the tradition of the BJJ Gi, then Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu might be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you are a fan of explosive action, fast submissions and a wrestling-based approach. Then, submission wrestling could be your calling.

Regardless of which you choose, both sports offer incredible physical benefits, mental discipline and self-defense skills. And for those truly passionate about grappling, blending both styles might be the most effective way to evolve into a well-rounded martial artist.