Cross-Training Era

Modern BJJ exists in a constant dialogue with other grappling arts. The cross-training era, which began gaining traction in the late 20th century, saw practitioners actively incorporating wrestling takedowns, judo throws, sambo submissions, and MMA strategies into their games.

This trend reflected the reality that no single art had all the answers. By blending approaches, athletes built more complete skill sets and became harder to counter. Cross-training also fostered innovation, as hybrid athletes created entirely new positions and transitions. Today, the highest levels of BJJ competition are dominated by grapplers fluent in techniques borrowed and adapted from multiple martial traditions.