93 Guard

The 93 guard, named for the approximate right-angle knee position, is a seated guard variant that emphasizes controlling distance and off-balancing the opponent. The bottom player typically uses one leg angled across the opponent’s body to establish leverage while maintaining mobility for sweeps and submissions.

This guard allows fluid transitions to other leg entanglements, such as ashi garami or inverted guards, and is especially useful in no-gi grappling due to its dynamic entry options. Competitors often use it to set up heel hooks, kneebars, and creative sweeps.

Mastery of the 93 guard requires precise hip and leg positioning, as even minor misalignments can compromise control or expose the practitioner to counters. Its development reflects modern grappling’s shift toward leg-focused systems.