Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top rated MMA gym in Singapore. Controversial scorecards have always been a problem in […]
Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top ratedMMA gym in Singapore.
Controversial scorecards have always been a problem in combat sports, and mixed martial arts isn’t exempt from this reality. Given the many metrics used to score MMA fights like effective aggression, ground control, and cage control, it’s an unavoidable reality. These metrics are subjective, and this often leads to judges scoring the same fight differently.
One of the things that have been proposed to help reduce the impact of controversial fight cards is adopting an open scoring system.
What Is Open Scoring?
The conventional way of scoring mixed martial arts competitions involves judges scoring each round independently using a 10-point scoring system and tallying up the winner of each round to determine the winner of the fight.
The scores for each round are only known to each judge until the scorecards are added up at the end of the fight. This leaves fighters and their corners left guessing who the winner of each round is. MMA fighters like Max Holloway have been quite vocal about switching over to a scoring system that gives fighters more real-time information during fights.
With an open-scoring system, judges would have to share their scores for each round as the fight progresses. That way, fans and fighters would have a clear idea of who’s winning the fight. It’s a massive benefit for fighters since it lets them know when to turn things up a notch to make up for lost rounds.
While open scoring seems like the obvious progression for mixed martial arts, there are some good arguments against using such a system. These include:
1) It Can Lead To Less Entertaining Fights
Mixed martial arts is more than just a sport. It is a multi-billion dollar industry that makes its money by keeping fans entertained. An open scoring system can lead to fights becoming less entertaining.
For example, a fighter who knows they are up two rounds on the judges’ scorecards might decide to take the third and final round of a fight off. This already occurs under the current scoring system when some fighters know they are clearly ahead on the scorecards. The practice of taking rounds off will undoubtedly become more common under an open scoring system.
2) Leaves Judges Exposed To Outside Influences
Real-time open scoring could leave judges vulnerable to the influence of promoters, trainers, fans, and fighters. This already occurs in sports like tennis, where judges receive lots of abuse for controversial decisions. MMA fans are known to be quite vocal when they disagree with scorecards, and that wouldn’t change under open scoring.
Just imagine a judge who scores the first round of a fight for Fighter A and receives loud boos from the crowd and harsh words from the promoter. That judge is less likely to stick to the same criteria they used to score that round for following rounds since they might try to appease those who disagree with their scores. Some athletic commissions have proposed ways around this.
For example, the Kansas Athletic Commission proposed collecting each round’s scores and showing them to the corners and promoters. The names of the judges wouldn’t be on the list, just the scores. That way, the fighter knows where they stand, and the judges don’t have to worry about being harassed by fans or trainers during or after the fight.
While there are some decent arguments against switching to open scoring systems, many would argue that the benefits of using an open scoring system negate the drawbacks. Some of the arguments in favor of open scoring include:
1) Allowing For More Effective Strategies
We’ve all watched fights where we have suspected a fighter’s corner was lying to them or oblivious to how the fight is going. From our point of view, the fighter is down on the scorecards, but their corner thinks differently. The fighter then assumes they have the victory secured and coasts during the third round. They are left standing in shock when the announcer reveals the scores favor the other fighter.
MMA fighters have a lot on the line every time they step inside the cage, and many argue they have a right to know how well or poorly they are performing during their fights. While this has the potential to lead to less entertaining fights, it may also make fights more entertaining.
Assume we have a fighter who is down two rounds. Under open scoring, they are aware they need a stoppage to win the fight, so they come out of the break looking for a stoppage. The fans get an entertaining fight, and the fighter gives themselves one last chance at winning the fight.
Under the current scoring system, the fighter might think they are only down one round and try point fighting during the third round, effectively sealing their loss. MMA fighters often get win bonuses that match their purses, so winning or losing a fight makes a huge financial difference. A loss can also have a significant impact on the trajectory of a fighter’s career.
2) Can Lead To More Accurate Scoring
Open scoring in MMA would likely include promoters sharing round scores with broadcasters so fans watching on TV can follow along. Scores likely won’t be announced at the venue since the crowd’s reaction can end up influencing the judges.
MMA scorecards typically go under the radar since many fights end in a stoppage, and the judges typically get the scores right. Controversial scorecards are the only ones that are often looked at closely due to the negative responses the judges’ scorecards get.
With open scoring, fans watching on TV get to see the scorecards as the fight progresses, so controversial scores are more likely to be noticed even if they don’t end up impacting the fight’s results. Judges with a pattern of turning in controversial scores can be detected and addressed before they ever negatively impact the results of a fight or the trajectory of a fighter’s career. This should lead to noticeably better scoring as the judges find themselves under more scrutiny.
Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top rated MMA gym in Singapore. Grappling is a huge part of mixed martial arts. Royce […]
Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top ratedMMA gym in Singapore.
Nowadays, learning how to grapple is a must for anyone considering a career as a professional MMA fighter. It isn’t just BJJ either. Wrestlers have also enjoyed lots of success inside the cage, and there are many who believe it is the best base to have for professional MMA. That’s because wrestling works well with the way mixed martial arts fights are scored. Top position is perceived as advantageous by judges, so having the ability to control where the fight takes place helps on the scorecards.
The current list of MMA champions makes this clear. Stipe Miocic, Daniel Cormier, Tyron Woodley, and Tony Ferguson all come from wrestling backgrounds. It doesn’t stop there though. Grapplers from many other martial arts have made their marks on MMA as well.
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of grappling found in MMA:
When you’re well versed in BJJ, you’re always in a fight even when you are getting dominated. You only need a single opening to secure a joint lock or choke and force your opponent to submit. There are literally a countless number of submissions, sweeps, and reversals in BJJ.
Something else that separates BJJ practitioners from other grapplers is their ability to finish fights on their backs. The guard is a classic BJJ position that goes against the conventional way people think about fighting. Lay people tend to assume the person on the bottom is losing the fight, but there are actually more submissions and attacks from the bottom position than the top.
The ability to finish from traditionally disadvantageous positions is what makes BJJ king of the grappling arts. There’s also a special kind of confidence that comes with BJJ. Anderson Silva is a prime example of this. When you aren’t worried about being put on your back, other aspects of your martial arts repertoire open up.
2) Wrestling
As we mentioned earlier, wrestling is one of the best bases for MMA. While it doesn’t have the countless submissions you see in BJJ, it does make up for it with the many pining techniques and holds. While BJJ is about finishing fights, wrestling is about controlling your opponent.
On average, wrestlers are better at taking others down and preventing themselves from being taken down. Once on the mat, wrestlers also do a better job of keeping their opponents pinned on the mat. That skill set works well with MMA. A good wrestler can simply take opponents down and beat them into submission on the ground, or dominate rounds with ground control. Many current and past champions in MMA have wrestling backgrounds.
Wrestling can be so effective in MMA, it allowed Brock Lesnar to secure a UFC title a couple of fights after switching to MMA, dethroning the ageless Randy Couture.
3) Judo
Here’s another grappling art that has been proven to be effective in MMA. It really shouldn’t be that surprising given the fact Jiu-Jitsu is a derivative of Judo. Judo players like Karo Parisyan wowed UFC fans with his spectacular throws during his prime, while Ronda Rousey dominated women’s MMA with her Olympic-caliber Judo.
Like BJJ, Judo also has its share of submissions. For example, the triangle choke is actually a judo choke that was popularized by BJJ players. What separates Judo from other grappling arts is the strong emphasis on throws from all sorts of positions, even seemingly disadvantageous ones like when your opponent has double under hooks secured on you.
A good judo throw stuns your opponent, giving you a chance to finish the person off with a submission or strikes. That’s one of the reasons why Rousey was so dominant during her prime. She often secured submissions right after tossing her opponent to the ground.
4) Sambo
Sambo is a grappling style that has been popularized by Russian fighters like Fedor Emelianenko and Khabib Nurmagomedov. It isn’t one of the more popular grappling arts in modern MMA, but it’s one of the most effective.
Sambo practitioners have a diverse range of takedowns in their arsenals, and that variety makes it harder to defend against their takedowns since many of them aren’t often used in other grappling arts. Sambo is also arguably the most complete grappling-based martial art. It incorporates submissions, sweeps, and striking techniques into its curriculum. No other grappling art spends as much time on striking.
That gives Sambo practitioners an edge as they start preparing for all the many different things that can take place during a fight when they start training. It also makes it a very effective grappling art for self-defense.
These are the four grappling arts you will typically see in MMA. While they all have some similarities, it is their unique differences that make them what they are. MMA has evolved a lot since its early days, and you certainly need to be comfortable with grappling exchanges if you plan to have a career as a professional mixed martial arts fighter.
There is no such thing as a superior grappling art. There are many useful things you can learn from each one. When you take a closer look at most past and present MMA champions, you will quickly realize most of them have learned more than one grappling style.
If you plan to compete professionally as a mixed martial artist, train at least two different grappling styles. BJJ is great, but it’s even better when you have some judo or wrestling skills to go with it. The same can be said about any other martial art.
Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top rated Muay Thai Gym in Singapore. Ferocity, power, and heart; these are just […]
Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top ratedMuay Thai Gym in Singapore.
Ferocity, power, and heart; these are just some of the qualities that come to mind when the name Buakaw, is mentioned. As one of the biggest superstars in Muay Thai history, Buakaw Banchamek is certainly no stranger to anyone who knows anything about martial arts or fighting. But even after having more 300 fights in his over 20 year long illustrious career, there some things even his most fervent fans have yet to discover.
So without further ado, here are Evolve Daily’s 9 Facts About Muay Thai Superstar Buakaw Banchamek That Will Blow Your Mind:
1) Fan to fighter
Buakaw was born on May 8, 1982, in Bansongnong County, Samrong Thap, Surin Province, Thailand. When he was about seven or eight years old, he attended a local Muay Thai show held near his home. Watching the crowd cheer as the fighters made their way into the ring lit a fire in Buakaw. After the show, he discussed the idea of becoming a fighter with his parents. His parents approved and he began training in Muay Thai a few days later.
2) The usual training routine
Buakaw’s incredible physique is a product of his years of hard work and dedication in the gym. He wakes up every morning at 5:30AM and runs over 6-10 miles as a warm up. After which he goes straight into his regular training program, which consists of 15 rounds of pad and bag work, strength and conditioning, and clinch work or sparring.
At around 3:00PM, he goes for another run, and then into his regular training program again with another 15 rounds, finishing at around 7:00PM or 8:00PM; just in time for dinner. And this is just his usual routine! Buakaw kicks it up a few notches when he has a fight coming up.
3) He never won a major world title in Thailand
It’s hard to imagine Buakaw losing a fight nowadays. Due to the high level in Thailand, Buakaw wasn’t as successful in the ring as he is today. Though he was winning most of the fights he had in his province, Buakaw lost his first 4-5 matches when he just started fighting at national level in the legendary Lumpinee Stadium.
The losing streak almost caused Buakaw to give up on fighting altogether but with the help of his gym, Por. Pramuk, he continued his career, but never achieved elite status in Thailand as a fighter. His lucky break came when he was invited to compete overseas in K-1 where he dominated and won the hearts of fans all over the world.
4) Muay Thai striker by day, football striker by night
In 2014, while he was still actively fighting, Buakaw signed on as a forward for RBAC Football Club, the reserve team of Ratchaburi F.C. that currently plays in the Regional League Division 2, the 3rd level football league in Thailand. As for why he decided to be a professional footballer, Buakaw had this to say: “I’ve been a football lover since I was a kid. To be a professional footballer is also one of my dreams.”
5) Por. Pramuk no more
Though now known as Buakaw Banchamek, Buakaw is still more famously known for his previous ring name, Buakaw Por. Pramuk, when he was still fighting out of the famous Por. Pramuk Gym in Bangkok, Thailand. And though Por. Pramuk was the gym that helped bring Buakaw most of his fame, it was also the gym that caused him a lot of his problems in recent years. His manager reportedly stole 95% of Buakaw’s earnings and refused to return it to him.
In 2012, it was reported that Buakaw had been missing from his training camp for unknown reasons. He then appeared on a Thai TV talk show shortly after the reports, apologizing to his fans and stating that the gym had mistreated him for years. Weeks later, Buakaw decided to retire from fighting in order to end the dispute with Por. Pramuk Gym.
6) Buakaw the Mixed Martial Artist?
During the few months he spent away from the ring in retirement, there were numerous reports and sightings of Buakaw training in Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Wrestling classes. This sparked some speculation that he was well on the way to a potential MMA career, which made sense as it was not against the contractual agreement with Por. Pramuk Gym. The transition into MMA never happened and Buakaw returned to the ring on August 17, 2012.
7) Banchamek Gym
After his exit from Por. Pramuk Gym and with the help of one of his sponsors, Yokkao, Buakaw built a Muay Thai gym in his hometown. The gym was built in just 10 days and was named Banchamek Gym (Buakaw’s real name is Sombat Banchamek). Buakaw built the camp not only because he wanted to continue training but so that he could help the children in his village discover Muay Thai as well.
8) Honorary Masters and Ph.D. holder
In 2013, Buakaw was awarded an honorary Masters of Science degree in Sports Science from the Kasetsart University for his outstanding contribution as one of the biggest athletes in Thailand. He also received a Ph.D. in Regional Development Strategies in 2014 from the Surindra Rajabhat University for being an ambassador for the ancient art and traditions of Muay Thai and a household name in the field of sports both in Thailand & around the world.
9) Legendary achievements
Buakaw’s popularity and achievements over the years have made him both a Muay Thai and K-1 legend. He is multiple-time WMC Champion, Omnoi Stadium Champion, WBC Muay Thai Diamond Champion, Shooto Boxing S-Cup World Champion, Thai Fight World Champion, the first fighter to win K-1 World Max twice (2004 and 2006), and much more!
Buakaw Banchamek is truly one of the most remarkable fighters of our generation. And we can be sure that he will continue to entertain fans around the world with his skill and unrelenting heart!
As many know, Jiu Jitsu was created based on the teachings of Judo. The two martial arts have many similarities, but are very different from one another. Let’s do a comparison and list the differences between Judo vs Jiu Jitsu. Going over everything from how they were developed, their principles, belts, Gis, and competition rules. […]
As many know, Jiu Jitsu was created based on the teachings of Judo. The two martial arts have many similarities, but are very different from one another.
Let’s do a comparison and list the differences between Judo vs Jiu Jitsu. Going over everything from how they were developed, their principles, belts, Gis, and competition rules. We’ll also go over the positives of cross training between Judo and Jiu Jitsu.
History of Judo vs Jiu Jitsu
The stories of how Judo and Jiu Jitsu are incredible stories that coincide with one another. Here are the histories of Judo and Jiu Jitsu and how each martial art was developed.
The history of Judo
Judo was created by Grandmaster Jigoro Kano. Grandmaster Kano became a protege of Fukuda Hachinosuke when he was a teen. Learning a grappling style called Tenjin Shinyo-ryu style of jujutsu.
When Kano was just 21 years old, he began developing his own martial arts form. Mixing the jujutsu techniques that he came up with and mixing it with his own techniques that he developed.
What Kano created would be known as the art of Judo. Opening his first Judo school in 1882 with just 9 students in the school’s first year in existence.
Judo was able to grow at an exponential rate thanks to the brilliant idea of Kano. He wanted to spread his art of Judo just like how a religion spread.
Kano tasked his top students with the mission of spreading the art of Judo. Jigoro along with his top students would travel the world teaching the art of Judo.
Before anyone knew it, Judo was practiced on nearly every continent in just 50 years. Today it is even bigger than Grandmaster Kano could have ever imagined.
The history of Jiu Jitsu
Through the spread of Judo, the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was able to be created. A few of Kano’s top students, including Judo master Mitsuyo Maeda.
Maeda immigrated to Brazil with the help of a Brazilian politician named Gastao Gracie, who he befriended. Gracie helped Maeda put on Judo demonstrations in different cities within Brazil.
At one of these demonstrations, Gracie’s son Carlos Gracie was in attendance. Carlos became one of Maeda’s first students along with Luiz Franca, who also helped create Jiu Jitsu.
For a few years, Carlos learned under Maeda for a few years before showing his brother Helio different Judo techniques. They were both small in stature, so they began developing their own style based off of Judo.
What they helped create would become known as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. BJJ practitioners would fight to prove the effectiveness of their martial art over the years within Vale Tudo fights.
Then after the first UFC event aired, the world was exposed to the effectiveness of Jiu Jitsu. Today, it is one of the most popular and fasted growing martial arts in the world.
Main difference between Judo vs Jiu Jitsu
Both Judo and Jiu Jitsu are grappling martial arts, but there is one big difference that sets them apart. That is their different objectives
The objective of Judo is to grab a hold of an opponent and take them down with a throw, sweep, or trip. Judo does also teach ground techniques, but they are secondary to getting an opponent to the ground.
For Jiu Jitsu, the main objective is to control an opponent on the ground. Then once you establish control, you finish the fight with a choke or attack an opponent’s limbs.
Jiu Jitsu also teaches takedowns that it adopted from Judo and wrestling, but their secondary to the ground techniques.
Judo belts vs Jiu Jitsu belts
Both Judo and Jiu Jitsu both have a belt system, but they are very different from one another. The Judo belt system has 7 belts and the Jiu Jitsu belt system has 5 belts.
Judo belt system
White Belt
Yellow Belt
Orange Belt
Green Belt
Blue Belt
Brown Belt
Black Belt
Jiu Jitsu belt system
White Belt
Blue Belt
Purple Belt
Brown Belt
Black Belt
How long does it take to get a black belt in Judo vs Jiu Jitsu?
It takes around the same amount of time to earn a black belt in Judo and Jiu Jitsu. To earn a black belt in either, you’re looking at around a timeframe to get a black belt in either one. Around 8-10 years to earn either a Judo black belt or Jiu Jitsu black belt.
Judo Gis vs Jiu Jitsu Gis
A Judo Gi and a Jiu Jitsu Gi are made of the same material and look similar from a glance. But they’re noticeably different from one another.
Judo Gis
A Judo is a bit heavier and more baggy than a Jiu Jitsu Gi. This is because the Gis are designed to be grabbed, so a Judoka can execute throws and sweeps.
The sleeves and pant legs are also far shorter on Judo Gis than with Jiu Jitsu Gis. They also usually only come in blue and white, because those are the only permitted colors within Judo competitions.
Jiu Jitsu Gis
Jiu Jitsu Gis are a bit slimmer and lighter than standard Judo Gis. The jacket sleeves and pant legs are a bit longer on standard Jiu Jitsu Gis. This allows for Jiu Jitsu practitioners to grab hold of their opponent’s Gis and play different guard styles.
Jiu Jitsu Gis also come in a wide variety of colors compared to Judo Gis. But only white, blue, black Gis are permitted within IBJJF competitions.
Top organization/federation between Judo vs Jiu Jitsu
Judo and Jiu Jitsu share a big similarity that both martial arts competitions are dominated by two different federations. The International Judo Federation (IJF) and the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).
The IJF is the top Judo federation in the world that oversees the world’s biggest Judo competitions. This includes the Judo World Championship and the Judo matches that are held within the Olympics.
In Jiu Jitsu, the IBJJF was originally the Confederação Brasileiro de Jiu-Jitsu(CBJJ). They created a new organization called the IBJJF when they went international in the early 2000s.
The IBJJF oversees the Jiu Jitsu World Championship and the No-Gi Jiu Jitsu World Championship.
Judo matches vs Jiu Jitsu matches
Judo matches are very different compared to Jiu Jitsu matches. Both have different rules and objectives to win a match.
The rules of Judo matches
No Striking
No Stalling
No Touching Opponent’s Face
No Intentionally Hurting Opponent
No Joint Attacks(Other than elbows)
No Kawazu Gake Techniques(Leg Entanglements)
No Kani Basami Techniques(Foot Sweeps)
No Time Limit
The rules of Jiu Jitsu matches
No Striking
No Stalling
No Feet Inside Opponent’s Gi
No Spiking Opponent’s Head
No Neck Cranks
No Spinal Locks
Time Limit: 10 Minutes(Black Belt Level)
Judo point system vs Jiu Jitsu point systems
Jiu Jitsu has a point system, while in Judo, there are two ways to win a match.
Judo point system
To win in Judo you must either score an ippon or two waza-aris.
Ippon: An ippon is a perfect throw performed with control and power, where the opponent lays flat on their back. Also a pin lasting for 20 seconds, a strangulation or armlock attacking the elbow.
Waza-Ari: A waza-ari is a half point, where a Judoka performs a throw, but it isn’t perfect. Also a pin lasting 10-19 seconds and a Judoka will win if they’re awarded two waza-aris.
Jiu Jitsu point system
The Jiu Jitsu point system is far more diverse than in Judo. It includes:
Takedowns/Sweeps/Throws: 2 Points
Knee On Belly: 2 Points
Guard Pass: 3 Points
Mount/Back Mount: 4 Points
Advantages: Near Sweeps/Submissions/Guard Passes
Ways to win in Judo vs Jiu Jitsu
Judo is also very different in how a Judo match is won compared to a Jiu Jitsu match. There are two specific ways to win a Judo match and three ways to win a Jiu Jitsu match
Ways to win a Judo match
To win a Judo match, you can win by either a successful ippon or two waza-aris. You can also win by disqualification if the opponent is penalized by the official.
Ways to win a Jiu Jitsu match
There are three ways to win a Jiu Jitsu match. You can either win by:
Submission(Chokes or Limb Attacks)
Points
Referee Decision
You can also win by disqualification like in Judo if the official penalizes your opponent for an infraction.
MMA fighters with background in Judo vs Jiu Jitsu
Both Judo and Jiu Jitsu have produced some great MMA fighters. Here are some of the most prominent fighters that each martial art has produced.
Is it beneficial to cross train between Judo and Jiu Jitsu?
Yes, it is very beneficial to train in both Judo and Jiu Jitsu. Especially for Jiu Jitsu, because it will allow you to get your opponent to the ground. It will also benefit you and make you an overall better martial artist to know both grappling styles.
Lorenzo Hunt came in with a surprise at the BKFC 24 ceremonial faceoffs when he smashed a half-eaten tomato in Joe Riggs’s face. As an MMA fan, it’s not only the actual fight that gets us excited. It’s the thrill of the build-up as two opponents get ready to face each other in the cage. […]
Lorenzo Hunt came in with a surprise at the BKFC 24 ceremonial faceoffs when he smashed a half-eaten tomato in Joe Riggs’s face.
As an MMA fan, it’s not only the actual fight that gets us excited. It’s the thrill of the build-up as two opponents get ready to face each other in the cage. Weigh-ins, faceoffs, and press conferences are great ways for an athlete to promote their fight and increase the standing of their brand.
Ahead of the fight, light heavyweight champion Lorenzo Hunt found his opportunity to promote the event at the BKFC 24 ceremonial faceoffs. Squaring off against former UFC fighter and next title challenger Joe Riggs, Hunt came in with a robust weapon in his hand, a tomato.
Props to the security and staff working the show for acting quickly. They separated the two fighters before the matter could escalate. Riggs was far from delighted with the strike as he yelled out “c*nt” in Hunt’s direction. The 39-year-old took joy in the exploits of his antics as he laughed at a distance from Riggs and put on a show for the audience.
Lorenzo Hunt infamous for wild antics
Lorenzo Hunt is going into his contest off a five-fight win streak that saw him dispatch Hector Lombard and Josh Dyer in bare-knuckle boxing matches. ‘The Juggernaut’ has become a provocative figure in the promotion who’s infamous for trashing his opponents.
Before his match with Lombard, Hunt walked up to the former champion and took his belt away as security made sure to maintain a distance between them. He proceeded to smash the belt on the floor prior to walking away with it.
After Lombard’s successful defense against Riggs, he was unable to complete his post-fight interview in the ring. Hunt took the chance to jump in and aggressively paced towards the former cruiserweight king who was having none of it. Being already infuriated with his actions from the presser, Lombard didn’t hesitate to take a swing at Hunt as he invaded his personal space.
Do you think Lorenzo Hunt will beat Joe Riggs tonight?
Amazon has become the website for BJJ grapplers to buy their BJJ GIs for class. There are now so many Gis on the website that it can be a task looking for the best ones. But fear not as we have put together a list of the best BJJ Gis on Amazon. All of the […]
Amazon has become the website for BJJ grapplers to buy their BJJ GIs for class. There are now so many Gis on the website that it can be a task looking for the best ones.
But fear not as we have put together a list of the best BJJ Gis on Amazon. All of the products we listed are currently the highest rated BJJ GIs on the website with links provided.
We’ve also added a section linking our other best of lists in case you need any other recommendations.
Looking for other recommendations?
Are you looking for any other recommendations besides the best BJJ Gis? We’ve got you covered! Here are the links to our other best of lists of combat sports products.
What’s the difference between BJJ Gis and other Gis?
Before you can pick the best BJJ Gis, you have to know the difference between them and other types of Gis. Here are descriptions of a few different types of Gis.
BJJ Gis
BJJ Gis are made of durable and more heavy duty materials than other types of martial arts Gis. Specifically designed for grappling with the top sleeves going to the wrist and pant legs to the ankles.
Judo Gis
Judo Gis are very similar to BJJ Gis and are made of the same materials, but there are subtle differences. Those at the sleeves, pants legs, and lapels are much shorter in Judo Gis than with BJJ Gis.
Striking Martial Arts Gis
There are a variety of different striking martial arts that use variations of a Gi. These types of Gis are much lighter than grappling Gis and are not designed to be grabbed or pulled on.
Fuji
Fuji has been a producer of the best BJJ Gis for the last few decades. They have quite a few lines of BJJ Gis that are top quality products. Here are three lines of BJJ Gis that they currently sell on Amazon.
Fuji BJJ Uniform
Best Selling Fuji Kimono
Award Winning
Cotton Blend
Midweight
Approved By Pros
100% IBJJF Approved
8 Color Options
23 Size Options
First on our best BJJ Gis list is one of the most sold Gis in the market. The Fuji BJJ Uniform is an award winning Gi that had been used and approved by numerous legends and champions
Fuji makes their original kimonos out of their classic cotton blend that are midweight with stiff collars. Then of course, nearly all Fuji kimonos are IBJJF approved.
You can get the original Fuji BJJ Uniform in 8 colors and 23 size options for men, women, and kids.
Fuji Summertime BJJ Uniform
Perfect Rating
Cotton Blend
Lightweight
450 Grams
Embroidered Logos
IBJJF Approved
Next from Fuji is their lightweight summertime Gi, the Fuji Summertime BJJ Uniform. This lightweight Gi currently has a perfect rating that is more than deserved.
It’s made from Fuji’s classic cotton blend and weighs in at just 450 grams. Making it perfect to train in on those hot summer days.
Complete with sleek embroidered logos and of course this kimono is IBJJF approved.
Fuji Brazilian Pride Edition Gi
Pearl Weave
Extra Stitching
Reinforced Knee Pads
Versatile
Sleek Look
4 Color Options
14 Size Options
IBJJF Approved
The last Gi that we’ll spotlight from Fuji is one of their best BJJ Gis. The Fuji Brazilian Pride Edition Gi is an homage to Brazil since many Brazilian grapplers have proudly worn Fuji gear.
Fuji made this higher end Gi with a pearl weave and extra stitching to reinforce the kimono’s durability. Also with reinforced knee pads to ensure the knees won’t wear out.
This Gi is medium weight, while still having a very slim and sleek look. Then just about everything Fuji makes, this Gi is IBJJF approved and available in 4 colors and 14 sizes.
Hayabusa
Hayabusa makes some of the best BJJ Gis that are on the more high end side of the market. Here are three of the lines of Jiu Jitsu Gis that they currently sell on Amazon.
Hayabusa Lightweight Gi
Cotton Gi
420gsm
8oz Ripstop
Pearl Weave
Reinforced Seams
Lightweight
7 Color Options
6 Size Options
The first offering from Hayabusa is their Hayabusa Lightweight Gi. This is their standard lightweight Gi that is well made like everything that Hayabusa did.
They made these Gis out of 100% cotton with the lightweight pearl weave jacket coming in at 420gsm. Also 8oz ripstop that have reinforced seams to increase their durability.
Hayabusa made these Gis IBJJF compliant and in 7 colors and 6 size options.
Hayabusa Ultra Lightweight Pearl Weave Jiu Jitsu Gi
Hayabusa made these ultra lightweight Gis out of durable and lightweight pearl weave cotton. Also reinforced lightweight ripstop pants that are built to last.
All of this together makes this Gi offer 100% fluid movement when you’re on the mat. This IBJJF approved Gi comes in 4 colors and 6 size options.
Hayabusa Ascend BJJ Gi
Lightweight
Pearl Weave
Great Feel
Maximizes Mobility
IBJJF Compliant
3 Color Options
6 Size Options
The last offering from Hayabusa that we’ll spotlight is their Hayabusa Ascend BJJ Gi. Arguably the best BJJ Gi that Hayabusa currently makes.
This is another lightweight Gi put together with a strong pearl weave that is durable while feeling comfortable. When you put this Gi on it enables you to maximize your mobility while you’re rolling.
Hayabusa made this Gi to be IBJJF compliant that includes 3 colors and 6 size options.
Venum
Venum is another combat sports product company that is known for producing quality. That includes making some of the best BJJ Gis that are currently available on Amazon. Here are four lines of Gis that they’re currently selling on the website.
Venum Contender 2.0 BJJ Gi
100% Cotton
Pearl Weave
350gsm
Eva Foam Collar
230gsm pants
Reinforced Stitching
3 Color Options
4 Size Options
First from Venum is their updated Venum Contender 2.0 BJJ Gi. Made from 100% cotton and lightweight, yet durable pearl weave.
This Gi jacket weighs in at 350gsm and the pants weigh in at 230 gsm and include reinforced stitching. The collar is also durable with an eva foam collar added in for flexibility.
Venum’s Contender 2.0 Gi is IBJJF compliant and comes in 3 colors and 4 different size options.
Next up from Venum is their original line of kimonos that have been updated. Their Venum Classic 2.0 BJJ Gi is a classic design that is made from a cotton blend and put together with a pearl weave.
The Gi jacket comes in at 450gsm and the ripstop pants weigh in at 280gsm. A semi lightweight Gi that is comfortable, durable, and is IBJJF approved.
You can purchase this BJJ Gi in 3 color options and 9 size options.
Venum Elite 2.0 BJJ Gi
450gsm Jacket
Pearl Weave
Ripstop Pants
250gsm Pants
Knee Reinforcements
Internal Leg Reinforcement
3 Color Options
7 Size Options
The next line of BJJ gis from Venum is their Venum Elite 2.0 BJJ Gi. Another pearl weave Gi with a 450gsm jacket and 250 gsm ripstop pants.
Compete with double reinforced knees and internal leg reinforcement in the pant legs. Giving your legs full mobility and especially good if you’re a guard player.
The difference with this Venum Gi has the classic Venum logo going down the chest and on the shoulders. You can get this IBJJF compliant Gi in 3 colors and 7 size options.
Venum Power 2.0 BJJ Gi
450gsm Jacket
Cotton Pearl Weave
Ripstop Pants
280gsm Pants
IBJJF Approved
3 Color Options
9 Size Options
The last Venum Gi that we’ll spotlight is the Venum Power 2.0 BJJ Gi. Like most of the Venum Gis, the Power 2.0 has a 450gsm jacket made of durable pearl weave.
Also ripstop pants that are lightweight and only weigh in at 280gsms. It’s a very sleek and clean Gi that only has an embroidered Venum logo going down the chest.
This IBJJF compliant Gi from Venum comes in 3 colors and 9 size options.
Sanabul
Sanabul makes anything and everything within the world of combat sports. Including some of the best BJJ Gis that range from affordable to more high end. Here are the three Jiu Jitsu Gis that they are currently selling on Amazon.
Sanabul Core Competition Gi
Competition Gi
Athletic Cut
Preshrunk
Ultra Light
Cross Stitched Pants
6 Color Options
5 Size Options
First up from Sanabul is one of their most sold kimonos in the Sanabul Core Competition Gi. This is Sanabul’s affordable competition Gi that is pre shrunk and has a nice athletic cut.
They are ultra light Gis that include cross stitched pants that makes them extra durable. Sanabul currently makes 6 color options and 5 different sizes with the white, blue, and black Gis being IBJJF compliant.
Sanabul Essentials Gi
Amazon’s Choice
100% Cotton
Perfect Fit
Just What You Need
Uncluttered Style
6 Color Options
5 Size Options
Sanabul’s most affordable Gi option is their Sanabul Essentials Gi. An Amazon’s Choice product that is one of the most selling BJJ Gis on the website.
These affordable Gis are 100% cotton and are just what you need to do some Jiu Jitsu training. Offering you a perfect fit with the material being pre shrunk with no need to dry your Gi to shrink it.
The design Sanabul went with is a clean and uncluttered style that looks more professional. You can get the Essentials Gi in 6 colors and 5 size options.
Sanabul Highlights Competition Gi
Competition Gi
Perfect Fit
Preshrunk Santec Fabric
Single Weave
Athletic Fit
IBJJF Approved
5 Color Options
5 Size Options
The last Gi from Sanabul is the best BJJ Gi that the company currently makes. Their Sanabul Highlights Competition Gi is an affordable competition Gi that is made with a strong single weave.
Designed with preshrunk santec fabrics that not only provides an athletic fit, but also a perfect fit. This is thanks to the Gi being pre shrunk, so you don’t have to shrink it prior to training in it.
All 5 of the colors that Sanabul made this Gi is IBJJF approved and also available in 5 sizes.
Gold BJJ
Gold BJJ is a Jiu Jitsu gear company that has become known for producing quality products. This includes some of the best BJJ Gis that are currently available on the market. Here are four different Jiu Jitsu Gis that they’re currently selling on Amazon.
Gold BJJ Foundation Gi
Pearl Weave
450gsm Jacket
8oz Ripstop Pants
Preshrunk
Reinforced Stitching
Fully Sublimated Neck Rash Guard
IBJJF Legal
Gold BJJ Guarantee
3 Color Options
12 Size Options
First up from Gold BJJ is their Gold BJJ Foundation Gi is their standard Gi that is incredibly well made. Put together with a sturdy pearl weave jacket that weighs in at 450gsm.
Including lightweight ripstop pants that weigh in at just 8 ounces. Complete with reinforced stitching and both the pants and jacket being pre shrunk.
Gold BJJ also included the collars with fully sublimated rash guard lining that are durable and comfortable. These Gis are IBJJF legal and backed by the Gold BJJ guarantee and will completely refund your money if you’re not satisfied.
You can currently get these Gis in 3 colors and 12 size options.
Gold BJJ Ultra Light BJJ Gi
Aero Weave Gi
40% Lighter Than Pearl Weave
275gsm Gi Jacket
Reinforced Stitching
Clean Aesthetic
IBJJF Approved
Gold BJJ Guarantee
4 Color Options
13 Size Options
The next offering from Gold BJJ is their Gold BJJ Ultra Light BJJ Gi. They made this unique ultra light Gi with aero weave material that is 40% lighter than pearl weaves.
Gold BJJ made this jacket with an incredible 275gsm weight making it one of the lightest Gis on the market. But even though this is a lightweight Gi, it’s still made durable with reinforced stitching.
Complete with a clean aesthetic that is 100% IBJJF approved. You can currently buy this Gi in 4 different colors and 13 size options.
Gold BJJ Ultra Strong Gold Weave
Gold Weave
450gsm JAcket
Medium Weight
Rashguard Neck Lining
10oz Ripstop Pants
Reinforced Collar
Gold BJJ Guarantee
3 Color Options
12 Size Options
Gold BJJ went a step further in durability with this line of Gis. Their Gold BJJ Ultra Strong Gold Weave is made of powerful gold weave that’s among the strongest type of weave available.
This is a medium weight Gi that weighs in at 450gsm and 10 ounce ripstop pants. Complete with a reinforced collar that is made of rash guard fabric.
Gold BJJ backs this Gi like all of their other products with the Gold BJJ guarantee and is IBJJF approved. They currently offer this Gi in 3 color options and 12 different sizes.
Gold BJJ Valiant Gi
Perfect Rating
Heavyweight Gi
550gsm Jacket
12oz Ripstop Pants
Rash Guard Liner
Super Clean
IBJJF Legal
Gold BJJ Guarantee
2 Color Options
11 Size Options
On the other side of the spectrum of Gold BJJ’s ultra light Gi, they make a classic heavyweight Gi. Their Gold BJJ Valiant Giis the classic heavy style of kimono.
This is one of the best BJJ GIs available in the heavyweight category. It currently has a perfect Amazon rating and the jacket comes in at 550gsm and the ripstop pants at 12 ounces.
It is a super clean Gi with a rash guard liner included in the neck/jacket. Also of course being IBJJF legal and backed by the Gold BJJ guarantee.
You can currently buy this heavy Gi in 2 colors and 11 different sizes.
Twister
Twister is a lesser known BJJ company that has really been getting some buzz around the BJJ community. Making two of the best BJJ Gis on our list that are affordable. Here are short descriptions of the two Gis from Twister below.
Twister Pearl Weave BJJ Gi
Perfect Amazon Rating
Pre Shrunk
100% Cotton
Eva Foam Collar
IBJJF Compliant
3 Color Options
5 Size Options
The first offering from Tester is their Twister Pearl Weave Gi. This guy currently has a perfect Amazon rating and is arguably one of the best BJJ Gis on this list.
Twister designed this Gi with 100% cotton and put the jacket together with a durable pearl weave. Also included in the design is an eva foam collar that is flexible, yet durable.
They made this Gi IBJJF compliant and pre-shrunk, so you won’t have to shrink it to get the size right. You can currently buy this Gi in 3 colors and 5 different sizes.
Twister Black Mamba BJJ Gi
Pre Shrunk
Pearl Weave
475gms Jacket
No Shrinking
5 Size Options
The other line of Gis that Twister makes is their Twister Black Mamba BJJ GI. A preshrunk black and yellow Go that has a really clean look.
It’s made of cotton, put together with a durable pearl weave, and weighs in at 475gsm. Twister also pre shrunk this Gi, so you won’t have to worry about it shrinking after you wash it.
Twister currently made their Black Mamba Gi available in 5 different size options.
MoyaBrand Standard Issue Adult Gi
Perfect Rating
375gsm Jacket
Cotton Gi
IBJJF Approved
3 Color Options
9 Size Options
Next on the best BJJ Gis list is from Moya Brand, who is a highly respected designer of Jiu Jitsu Gis. Their MoyaBrand Standard Issue Adult Gimay be the best BJJ Gi on our list.
It currently has a perfect Amazon rating and is a great lightweight style Gi that weighs in at 375gsm. Made from 100% cotton, the pants are the durable ripstop style that are really hard to tear.
This BJJ Gi is IBJJF approved and is currently available in 3 colors and 9 different sizes.
Kingz IBJJF Men’s Gi
High Tech Pearl Weave
400gsm Jacket
Reinforced Stitching
Double Knee Padding
IBJJF Approved
3 Color Options
12 Size Options
Kingz makes a really solid Gis and they sponsor some of the best BJJ athletes in the world. Including multiple time BJJ world champion Leandro Lo, who routinely wears theirKingz IBJJF Men’s Gi.
They make their standard men’s Gi with a high tech pearl weave and reinforced stitching. Along with durable, yet comfortable ripstop pants that were also reinforced with double knee padding.
This is a semi lightweight Gi that weighs in at 400gsm and is of course IBJJF approved. You can currently get this IBJJF Gi in 3 colors and 12 different size options.
Elite Sport 2022 BJJ Gi For Men
Best Affordable Gi
60% Cotton 40% Polyester
Pre Shrunk
Lightweight
Sweat Dispersion
IBJJF Approved
6 Color Options
5 Size Options
The last product on our best BJJ Gis list is from Elite Sports that makes anything and everything for combat sports. For Jiu Jitsu, they made their Elite Sports 2022 BJJ Gi For Menthat’s the most affordable Gi on the list.
It is a lightweight Gi that is made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester and has sweat dispersion properties.. This Gi is pre shrunk, so that it fits without needing to wash it to make it fit right.
Elite Sports made this Gi IBJJF legal and it comes in 6 colors and 5 different sizes.