Combat Jiu-Jitsu (CJJ) is a submission grappling competition format that combines Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with limited open-hand striking. The format was created by Eddie Bravo as an attempt to bridge the gap between traditional grappling competition and real combat scenarios.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu uses a primarily no-gi submission grappling ruleset while allowing palm strikes to the grounded opponent. The goal is to create a competitive environment where athletes must manage both submission threats and striking pressure.

Unlike traditional BJJ competitions, CJJ introduces a striking element while maintaining submissions as the primary method of victory.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Competition Prestige

Combat Jiu-Jitsu occupies a unique position within the grappling world because it represents a hybrid format rather than a traditional BJJ tournament structure.

The format gained recognition because of:

Unique ruleset: CJJ combines submission grappling with controlled striking.
Combat sports crossover: The format appeals to athletes interested in the connection between grappling and mixed martial arts.
Influence from EBI: CJJ developed from the same submission-focused philosophy associated with Eddie Bravo’s competition formats.
Different strategic demands: Athletes must adapt their grappling for the possibility of strikes.

While CJJ does not currently carry the same historical prestige as ADCC or IBJJF, it has established a distinct identity within competitive grappling.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Competition Structure

CJJ events are generally organized around:

Weight divisions
No-gi competition
Elimination tournaments
Submission-focused matches
Professional and amateur divisions

The format typically separates athletes by:

Weight category
Skill level
Competitive experience

Unlike IBJJF tournaments, CJJ is not primarily structured around belt divisions.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Match Format

Combat Jiu-Jitsu matches begin from a standing position and continue as no-gi grappling contests.

Competitors may use:

Wrestling techniques
Takedowns
Guard systems
Submission attacks
Positional control
Open-hand strikes

Matches can be won through:

Submission
Knock out
Referees Stoppage
Decision
Overtime formats when applicable

The presence of strikes changes how athletes approach traditional grappling positions.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Ruleset

The defining feature of CJJ is the inclusion of open-hand strikes while maintaining a submission grappling foundation.

Key rules include:

Open-hand palm strikes allowed
No closed-fist punches
No elbow strikes
No kicks
No strikes to standing opponents
Submissions remain the primary finishing method

The striking element is designed to create realistic defensive challenges without turning the competition into mixed martial arts.

CJJ Striking Rules

Combat Jiu-Jitsu allows specific types of strikes.

Legal Strikes

Commonly permitted:

Open-hand palm strikes
Strikes to the body
Strikes to the head when the opponent is grounded, depending on event rules

Illegal Strikes

Generally prohibited:

Closed-fist punches
Elbows
Knees
Kicks
Strikes to illegal areas

The striking rules are intentionally limited to maintain the focus on grappling.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Overtime

Many CJJ events have used submission-focused overtime formats influenced by the EBI ruleset.

Overtime may involve:

Starting from dominant positions
Alternating submission attempts
Comparing escapes and finishes

Common overtime positions include:

Back control
Armbar positions

This creates a definitive winner without relying only on judges.

How CJJ Changes Traditional BJJ Strategy

The introduction of strikes changes many common grappling strategies.

Guard Playing

Traditional guard positions become more complex because athletes must consider:

Distance management
Head protection
Strike exposure
Sweeps and submission timing

Bottom Position

Being underneath an opponent carries additional risk because strikes can create openings for passes and submissions.

Top Position

Top players benefit from:

Pressure
Control
Ability to strike safely
Creating defensive reactions