Introduction
The guard position is one of the most essential and versatile aspects of ground fighting in mixed martial arts (MMA). Originating from Ju-Jitsu, the guard allows a fighter to defend, control, and attack an opponent even when on their back. While MMA incorporates striking, wrestling, and submissions, the guard remains a critical tool for grapplers to neutralise takedowns, avoid damage, and set up offensive techniques.

This essay explores the guard position in MMA, covering its history, different variations, strategic applications, strengths, weaknesses, and notable fighters who have mastered its use. By understanding the guard’s role in MMA, we can appreciate how it influences fights and why it remains a cornerstone of ground combat.

1. The Origins and Evolution of the Guard in MMA
1.1 Ju-Jitsu and the Birth of the Guard
The guard position was popularised by Ju-Jitsu, particularly through the Gracie family’s dominance in early no-holds-barred competitions. In Ju-Jitsu, the guard is a defensive and offensive tool that allows a smaller fighter to defeat a larger, stronger opponent using leverage and technique.

When MMA emerged in the 1990s (notably with the UFC), Royce Gracie demonstrated the guard’s effectiveness by submitting larger opponents from his back. This revolutionised martial arts, proving that ground fighting was just as important as striking.

1.2 Adaptation to MMA
As MMA evolved, fighters began integrating wrestling, judo, and striking into their games, forcing Ju-Jitsu specialists to adapt their guards. Unlike pure Ju-Jitsu, MMA introduces punches, elbows, and referee stand-ups, making passive guard play risky. Modern MMA fighters must use an active guard that combines submissions, sweeps, and the ability to stand up quickly.

2. Types of Guards in MMA
There are several guard variations in MMA, each with unique advantages and applications.

2.1 Closed Guard
The closed guard involves wrapping the legs around the opponent’s waist, locking the ankles to control posture.

– Advantages:
– Limits opponent’s movement
– Reduces ground-and-pound effectiveness
– Sets up submissions (triangles, armbars, omoplatas)
– Disadvantages:
– Difficult to maintain against strong wrestlers
– Can lead to referee stand-ups if inactive

2.2 Open Guard
The open guard keeps the legs free to frame, push, or sweep the opponent. Common open guards include:

– Butterfly Guard (using hooks inside the thighs to elevate and sweep)
– Spider Guard (controlling wrists with grips on sleeves)
– De La Riva Guard (entangling one leg for sweeps)

– Advantages:
– More mobile than closed guard
– Better for creating scrambles and standing up
– Disadvantages:
– Less control over opponent
– Vulnerable to passes if not properly managed

Example: Charles Oliveira uses dynamic open guards to transition into submissions.

2.3 Half-Guard
The half-guard is a transitional position where one of the opponent’s legs is trapped between the bottom fighter’s legs.

– Advantages:
– Can be used to sweep or take the back
– Helps slow down aggressive passers
– Disadvantages:
– Vulnerable to strikes if flattened out
– Skilled opponents can pass to mount

Example: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira was known for his half-guard sweeps and submissions.

2.4 Rubber Guard
Made famous by Eddie Bravo, the rubber guard uses extreme flexibility to control posture and set up submissions.

– Advantages:
– Excellent for controlling posture
– Unique submission entries (e.g., gogoplata)
– Disadvantages:
– Requires extreme flexibility
– Risky in MMA due to strikes

Example: Nick Diaz successfully used rubber guard in his fights.

2.5 Turtle Guard (Defensive Position)
While not a traditional guard, the turtle is a defensive position used to avoid damage and stand up.

– Advantages:
– Protects against strikes
– Can lead to reversals
– Disadvantages:
– Vulnerable to back takes and chokes

Example: Fedor Emelianenko was a master at escaping the turtle position.

3. The Role of the Guard in MMA Strategy
3.1 Defensive Uses
– Absorbing Strikes: A strong guard minimises damage from ground-and-pound.
– Preventing Passes: Proper framing and hip movement stop opponents from advancing to mount or side control.
– Creating Space: Used to stand up or create scrambles.

3.2 Offensive Uses
– Submissions: Armbars, triangles, and Kimuras are common from guard.
– Sweeps: Reversing position to gain top control.
– Striking from the Bottom: Upkicks and elbows can surprise opponents.

3.3 Limitations in Modern MMA
– Referee Stand-Ups: If a fighter is too passive, referees may restart the fight standing.
– Striking Vulnerability: Poor guard play leads to brutal ground-and-pound.
– Wrestling Dominance: Wrestlers often avoid engaging in guard, preferring top control.

4. Training the Guard for MMA
– Drilling Submissions: Repetition of armbars, triangles, and sweeps.
– Live Sparring: Practicing guard retention against resisting opponents.
– Striking Defence: Learning to block punches while on the back.
– Wrestling Ups: Developing the ability to stand up quickly.

Conclusion
The guard remains a vital component of MMA, blending defence, offence, and strategy. While modern MMA has evolved with wrestling and striking dominance, a well-trained guard can still be the difference between victory and defeat. Fighters who master guard retention, submissions, and sweeps add a dangerous layer to their game, ensuring they remain threats in any position. As MMA continues to evolve, the guard will adapt, but its core principles of leverage, technique, and creativity will always be relevant.

By studying the greats and continuously refining guard techniques, fighters can turn a seemingly defensive position into a powerful weapon inside the cage.