In the pursuit of becoming a complete grappler, we find ourselves chasing an elusive goal — perfection.

Much like the unattainable nature of perfection, our journey in Jiu-Jitsu is a continuous process of refining, adding layers of skill, and striving for excellence.

In 2021, I hosted the Takedown Confidence Summit wherein I interviewed 30 experts in BJJ, Judo, Sambo, and Wrestling to discuss BJJ practitioners’ hesitation to practice takedowns and how to overcome that fear.

Here is what Vlad Koulikov, a seasoned martial artist, had to say about seeking to become a complete grappler.

“You know, some people are specialists to specialize in one area.

And again, if you, if it leads you to winning, I guess it's a winning formula, don't fix it unless it's broke.

But that kind of mentality does not satisfy me personally.

Okay, I want to be as well rounded, as knowledgeable as possible, and perfection or absolute knowledge is not achievable by default.

It's not achievable by definition.

But I think as a human being who strives to grow as a martial artist, who wants to develop, you should be striving to that unachievable perfection.”

The parallels between becoming a complete grappler and the pursuit of perfection are evident.

Just as perfection remains out of reach, so does the notion of complete mastery in Jiu-Jitsu.

However, it is precisely in this pursuit that we find the essence of growth and evolution.

The layers of skill we add to our Jiu-Jitsu arsenal represent the steps we take towards that unattainable perfection, making us more versatile and adaptable on the mats.

To be a complete grappler means to navigate every facet of grappling, of which takedowns are a pivotal part.

Therefore, seeking grappling perfection and completeness, commitment to takedown proficiency is essential.

And remember, when you learn one technique you know one technique.
When you learn a concept you know a thousand techniques.

See you on the flipside. - Larry Keith