In the early days of “Modern Mixed Martial Arts”, fighters were either grapplers or strikers.

As they realized the importance of being more well-rounded, they merged into 2 main categories:

Ground-and-Pounders and Sprawl-and-Brawlers.

Ground-and-pounders would take the opponent to the ground and beat them into submission.

Sprawl-and-brawlers were strikers that learned to defend takedowns and keep the fight in the standup.

This was not enough.

Fighters had to continue to evolve if they wanted to stay on the top tier.

The first time I heard the term “complete fighter” was from MMA legend, Bas Rutten, in an interview wherein he emphasized the importance of proficiency in all ranges of combat.

Fighters were no longer confined to just striking or grappling, these fighters became versatile, adapting seamlessly to any situation.

I adopted a similar perspective with the term "complete grappler."

But what does it truly mean to be a complete grappler?

Embracing the Legacy of the Complete Fighter

The concept of a complete grappler echoes the legacy of the complete fighter in mixed martial arts.

It goes beyond mastering a specific set of techniques—it's about becoming competent in all ranges of grappling.

Just as a complete fighter seamlessly transitions from striking to grappling, a complete grappler navigates effortlessly through standing clinch, takedowns, ground control, and submissions.

It's not necessarily about individual techniques, but rather the competence to transition from one to the other.

Breaking Down the Ranges of Grappling

In the book, Mastering Jujitsu, by John Danaher and Renzo Gracie, they describe the three ranges of combat as, free movement, clinch/throw, and grappling.

One can be skilled in all these areas and still not be a “Complete Grappler”.

Transitions are the linchpin of grappling.

A complete grappler must be capable of flowing seamlessly from one range to another.

Whether it's a well-timed takedown, a swift guard pass, or a meticulous submission attempt, the complete grappler is a tactician, strategically maneuvering through every phase of the fight with transitions.

The Importance of Universal Concepts and Principles

Integral to the journey of a complete grappler is the understanding of universal concepts and principles.

These guiding principles transcend specific techniques and become the foundation for success in all ranges of grappling.

Whether it's maintaining a strong base in the stand-up, controlling the center of gravity during ground engagements, or applying leverage for efficient submissions, these concepts form the backbone of a complete grappler's arsenal.

Learning these principles not only enhances technical proficiency but also instills a deep understanding of the underlying dynamics that govern every aspect of the fight.

The Journey to Completeness

The journey to becoming a complete grappler is a continuous process of growth and exploration.

It requires dedication to learning, an open mind to embrace various grappling styles, and a commitment to mastering the transitions between ranges.

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