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Takedowns

Quick Introduction​

Takedowns bring your opponent to the ground while you land in a dominant top position. They combine explosive timing, proper mechanics, and strategic grip control to score 2 points and establish immediate control.

Position Overview​

From: Grip fighting control, created openings through feints | Leads to: Top position in guard, side control, opponent in turtle

Single Leg Takedown (Most Versatile)​

  1. Establish grip control (sleeve and collar or 2-on-1)
  2. Create opening with feint or grip break
  3. Drop stance explosively (level change)
  4. Step deep with penetration step (same side as target leg)
  5. Wrap both arms around target leg (high on thigh)
  6. Drive head to opposite side of captured leg
  7. Drive forward and finish with run-the-pipe, dump, or trip
  8. Land in top position

Key detail: Head position determines finish type — inside = trip, outside = run the pipe. Highest percentage takedown in BJJ. Works against most body types with multiple finish options.

Double Leg Takedown (Maximum Power)​

  1. Establish controlling grips
  2. Create opening (opponent's hands high or wide stance)
  3. Explosive level change (drop low)
  4. Deep penetration step between opponent's legs
  5. Wrap both arms around both thighs
  6. Head placement on chest (centerline), head UP
  7. Drive forward and slightly upward at 45-degree angle
  8. Finish by driving them to back or sweeping legs

Key detail: Must penetrate deep — hips close to opponent. Keep head up to prevent guillotine. Drive at 45-degree angle, not straight forward.

Body Lock Takedown (Control-Based)​

  1. Establish body lock position (over/under or double underhooks)
  2. Clasp hands behind opponent's back
  3. Keep chest tight to their chest or side
  4. Create off-balance by pulling or pushing
  5. Step/sweep their legs when off-balance
  6. Finish with trip, mat return, or throw

Key detail: Over/under = one arm over shoulder, one under armpit. Double underhooks = both arms under armpits (very strong). Pull opponent tight, use hip pressure to off-balance. Excellent for no-gi and clinch situations.

Sacrifice Throws (Strategic Options)​

  1. Establish strong collar and sleeve grips
  2. Step in close to opponent
  3. Sit down/fall backward in controlled manner
  4. Place foot/shin on opponent's hip or belt
  5. Pull with arms while extending leg
  6. Throw them over your body
  7. Follow through to top position or guard recovery

Key detail: Use when opponent's weight is forward and they're defending all upright takedowns. Requires strong grip control and comfort with going to guard if throw fails.

Core Principles​

  1. Level change creates success — Explosive drop in stance creates penetration
  2. Penetration is fundamental — Get hips close to opponent; distance = failed attempts
  3. Timing beats strength — Attack when opponent shifts weight or adjusts stance
  4. Head placement matters — Determines safety and finish type; prevents guillotine exposure
  5. Chain takedown attempts — Single blocked → switch to double; double blocked → body lock

Common Mistakes​

MistakeFix
Telegraphing the shotUse setups and feints before shooting
Shallow penetrationStep deep; hips must get close to opponent
Poor head positionHead up, outside or on chest; never diving head-first
Hesitant finishCommit to the drive; holding without finishing fails
No grip control firstEstablish grips before attempting any takedown
Losing forward pressureKeep driving; sitting back lets them recover

Next Steps​

  1. Grip Fighting - Essential setup for all takedowns
  2. Guard Pulls - Alternative when takedowns aren't working
  3. Side Control - Where successful takedowns lead