Opposite Side Pass

SubFamily

Opposite・サイド・パス(Opposite Side Pass)

Translation: opposite side pass

Overview

The Opposite Side Pass exits the half guard by passing to the opposite side from where the opponent expects, using an underhook and hip switch to reverse direction. [1]

Also known as
Far Side PassReverse Side Pass

History & Origin

The Opposite Side Pass is a guard passing technique detailed in Saulo Ribeiro's systematic BJJ approach. [1]

Effectiveness

Effective guard passing technique taught as part of a comprehensive passing system. [1]

Lineage

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guard passing methodology. [1]

Competition Record

Used in UFC and professional MMA competition

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Biomechanical Mechanism

Primary ActionGuard passing mechanics specific to opposite side pass
Joints InvolvedHips, knees for passing movement
Force VectorLateral or downward pressure to bypass the guard

Position & Entry

From opponent's guardExecute the opposite side pass

Variants

Not yet documented

Videos

Far Side To Near Side by Craig Jones

0
Opposite Side Pass·BJJ Fanatics

FAR SIDE TO NEAR SIDE https://bjjfanatics.com This sample clip is from the "Higher Tripod Passing by Craig Jones" BJJ

1 video

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Ratings

Danger Rating

Risk of injury to the person this technique is applied to

2
Low2/10

Guard passing — positional technique, not a strike or submission

Difficulty

Skill level needed to execute this technique reliably

Intermediate
Competition Legality

Whether this technique is allowed under major competition rule sets

IBJJF — Legal, guard pass scores 3 points
IBJJF Rules Book v6.0, June 2024PDF
IJF — Legal — transitioning past opponent's legs is part ...
IJF Sport and Organisation Rules 2025, Article 27PDF
ADCC — Legal, guard pass scores 3 points
ADCC Rules Update, April 2025PDF
Unified MMA — Legal
Unified Rules of MMA, August 2025PDF
FIAS Sport Sambo — Legal
FIAS International Sambo Competition RulesPDF

Training Notes

Drill the passing motion with progressive resistance (Ribeiro & Howell, 2008)

Common Mistakes

!Rushing without controlling grips
!Allowing guard re-composition

Related Techniques

Counter Techniques

Setup Chain

1Control grips → Opposite Side Pass → Establish side control or mount

Sources & References

Primary Source

Jiu-Jitsu University (Ribeiro & Howell, 2008)

1Book[1] Ribeiro, S. and Howell, K. (2008). Jiu-Jitsu University. Victory Belt Publishing. ISBN 978-0-9815044-3-8. Technical Editor: John Danaher.

description, historyOrigin: sourced from Ribeiro, S

2Citation[1] Ribeiro, S. and Howell, K. (2008). Jiu-Jitsu University. Victory Belt Publishing. ISBN 978-0-9815044-3-8. Technical Editor: John Danaher.

description, historyOrigin: sourced from Ribeiro, S

Community

Athletics

Good hip mobility and pressure

Balance

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I immobilize my opponent's hip during the opposite side pass?

Keep your knee pressure in and pinch your knee to immobilize the hip, preventing your opponent from moving their buttocks to either side. Craig Jones emphasizes that this hip control is essential before attempting to complete the pass.

Why would I switch my head position during the opposite side pass?

Switching your head to the far side prevents your opponent from establishing strong wizard grips and pulling your elbows in to off-balance you. Craig Jones notes this head positioning is a key detail to avoid giving your opponent control.

How does the Opposite Side Pass work?

The Opposite Side Pass exits the half guard by passing to the opposite side from where the opponent expects, using an underhook and hip switch to reverse direction.

Where does the Opposite Side Pass come from?

The Opposite Side Pass is a guard passing technique detailed in Saulo Ribeiro's systematic BJJ approach.

Is the Opposite Side Pass legal in competition?

IBJJF: legal — Legal, guard pass scores 3 points; IJF: legal — Legal — transitioning past opponent's legs is part of newaza; ADCC: legal — Legal, guard pass scores 3 points; Unified MMA: legal — Legal; FIAS Sport Sambo: legal — Legal

How dangerous is the Opposite Side Pass?

Danger rating 2/10. Guard passing — positional technique, not a strike or submission

How do I set up the Opposite Side Pass?

The standard setup chain: Control grips → Opposite Side Pass → Establish side control or mount.

How do I defend against the Opposite Side Pass?

Standard counters include: Re-guard / Frame and hip escape / Underhook from bottom.

How effective is the Opposite Side Pass in competition?

Used in UFC and professional MMA competition

What are common mistakes when doing the Opposite Side Pass?

Top errors to watch for: Rushing without controlling grips / Allowing guard re-composition.

What are other names for the Opposite Side Pass?

The Opposite Side Pass is also known as Opposite Side Pass, Far Side Pass, Reverse Side Pass.