Got talked in to a grappling tournament this weekend...

[Big Dave Smith]

I hate to say this, but it all comes down to genetics. More athletic ability and better fighting instincts are always going to win if both are conditioned and trained.

y.

I agree and disagree. You put my buddy Phil Viz in there and he's THAT guy... but if you look at a guy like Eddie Bravo (don't hate), it's a different story.

Hell ya bro, ur w tha right guys that's forsure... I was never much of a grappler but alwayz respect every aspect of tha game... I can't even imagine tha amount of pressure a guy like u creates when you really try to take a limb home lol.. The belts in a real school like your at are harder but when you have them, ther is no question... Will b great as u climb rank, ull b really dangerous w that strength...

Btw- I alwayz hated gi, but was wondering what ur personal preference is- gi or nogi?

I have a feeling I'm getting a blue belt soon (knock on wood). I actually prefer Gi training because it involves 1000x more technique. In a no gi situation, you might have (x) number of options in a position. In a gi, you have to be aware of SO much more. I'm sure because of my athleticism and strength, I would be a great no gi guy... but when I put a Gi on, I feel a lot more comfortable because I have more grips and more control over somebody.

 

[Big Dave Smith]

Good job man, great poise & pace. I was impressed that for a whit belt, you didn't spaz at all. I'm a Bjj guy too, I fight as well, I find it hilarious when people argue up and down that size can be overcome with technique....it can to a certain extent, but size, strength, & conditioning/cardio will also defeat skilled opponents if they are lacking in size skill or strength. Wrestled in high school, judo after, college football, lifetime of weightlifting, 5 years of Bjj & mma....and I'm 6"3 225 with a gas tank. If the second dude in the Nogi match is a purple, his school is a fraud. McDojo. Hey google loyd Irvin's mouse trap kimura....u seemed to favor the control position that leads to it, it's very easy. If u stick with bjj, become a guard player, big guys always do well on top, but if u force yourself to get good at guard, you will be unstoppable. Master a couple moves, that's all you need. Triangle, armbar, omoplata, sweep or 2, couple guard passes....learn to grab the kimura from all over.....drill dril drill...people over complicate bjj. The Kimura trap series is super big guy friendly too...
IBJJF is drug testing this year, not surprisingly, BJJ is super PED driven.

I went in today and did nothing but guard playing. I tried playing with half guard lockdown a lot. Your comment about having a great guard is very very true. I'm going to work on it.

 

[nziegs]

dave nice job on your matches, look up the von flue choke and thank me later