Development of Submission-Only Format

Submission-only competition emerged as a response to criticisms of point-based tournaments, where athletes sometimes focused on winning by advantages rather than pursuing a finish. In submission-only events, matches continue until one competitor secures a submission or, in some cases, until an overtime system resolves the stalemate.

Promotions like Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI), Metamoris, and Polaris helped popularize this format. The emphasis on submissions encouraged risk-taking and creativity, leading to more exciting matches for spectators. While submission-only events coexist with traditional tournaments, they have carved out an important niche in the grappling world, reshaping how athletes train and how fans experience the sport.