What the BEST Grapplers Have That You DON'T

Developing Ruthless Aggression in Jiu-Jitsu

This coaching video focuses on developing “ruthless aggression” in jiu-jitsu. The subtitles do not provide timestamps or a full play-by-play of the matches discussed.

The presenter argues that aggression must be built on strong fundamentals and confidence. A key concept is base: the ability to make a position your own, stay stable, and press forward—even when an opponent puts you in a dangerous position.

In a single-leg X example, the presenter demonstrates controlling the opponent’s arm, bringing the knees together, and advancing rather than simply retreating.

Examples from Competition

The presenter cites the Ruotolo brothers as examples of grapplers who attack confidently and are difficult to unsettle.

• In a match between Kade Ruotolo and Mika, Mika puts Kade in a position, but Kade holds his ground—an example of strong base.
• Gordon Ryan is mentioned for pursuing his chosen game with commitment.
• Craig Jones is described as having a guard-based approach that can make it harder to connect with opponents, though he has a strong base once connected.

Training Games and Drills

The practical section demonstrates training games from outside ashi and other leg-entanglement positions. Partners practice staying connected and moving inward to establish or maintain a strong base, rather than focusing only on escaping.

Other drills give one partner the goal of holding outside ashi or shifting the top player’s weight onto their hands or hips. The presenter explains that repeated practice can make opponents tire themselves out trying to move a stable grappler, creating openings to advance and finish.

Recommended Match

The video closes by recommending Andrew Tackett vs. Kade Ruotolo as an example of “ruthless aggression” from both competitors. The subtitles do not describe specific actions, the result, or the timing of the match.

Presenters and Sources

• Video/channel: Dima Murovanni BJJ
• Demonstration partner: Linus
• Referenced competitors: Kade Ruotolo, Mika, Gordon Ryan, Craig Jones, and Andrew Tackett