Worm Guard

Worm guard is a deep lapel guard system where the practitioner threads the opponent’s leg with their own lapel to gain control and create sweep opportunities. Popularized in gi competition, worm guard allows the bottom player to manipulate distance, off-balance the opponent, and transition to sweeps or submissions.

This guard is particularly effective at high-level competition because it is difficult to counter without breaking grips, and it enables continuous chain attacks. Mastery requires precise lapel management, footwork, and timing to prevent the opponent from passing or escaping.

Competitors often flow from worm guard into back takes, leg entanglements, or spider guard setups. The system represents the modern emphasis on grip-based control and complex, high-level positional strategy in gi BJJ.