Introduction to Butterfly Pass Fundamentals

Brad Jackson demonstrates the butterfly pass, a fundamental guard passing technique used when the opponent has established hooks from their back position. This technique is particularly effective against opponents attempting hook sweeps, as it neutralizes their primary attacking angles through strategic hip and leg positioning.

Controlling the Opponent's Mobility

The first principle involves pinching the knees together while bringing the opponent's ankles close, then driving the hips forward into their body. This dual-control method prevents the opponent from sitting up or creating the necessary angles to execute a hook sweep, establishing immediate positional dominance.

Establishing Grips and Pressure

The practitioner secures the opponent's collar with one hand while gripping their leg with the other, maintaining knee pressure against the torso. These grips work synergistically to trap the opponent and prevent escape, setting up the transition to the passing sequence.

Knee Positioning and Hip Rotation

The instructor steps with the right foot, turning the knee into the opponent's rib cage to slot their leg. As downward pressure is applied to the stomach, the practitioner rotates around the opponent's hip joint while backstopping the rear leg, creating space for the final position.

Transitioning to Knee-on-Belly

From the rotated position, the practitioner switches into a knee-on-belly control, which allows multiple finishing options and prevents guard recovery. This transition concludes the butterfly pass sequence with the opponent pinned and controlled.

Omoplata Setup and Collar Control

Sean Roberts introduces the omoplata sequence, beginning with proper collar grip placement between the legs to shift pressure from the opponent's shoulder to their neck. This grip prevents the opponent from standing and shaking out, establishing the foundation for the sweeping mechanics.

Managing the Opponent's Jump-Over Defense

When the opponent jumps over the omoplata to escape, the practitioner releases the collar grip, hugs the leg, and executes a sweep by sitting up and rolling. This counter-response transforms a defensive jump-over into a positional advantage.

Defending Against Leg Crosses

After sweeping, the opponent may attempt to throw their leg over or cross their feet to trap the practitioner. The immediate response is pinning the leg down to prevent crossing, establishing control before advancing the pass.

Completing the Guard Pass Sequence

The practitioner drives their far leg over the opponent's body, grabs the far lapel, and hooks the foot inside to secure side control. The foot placement—tucked rather than extended—prevents the opponent from opening the leg and transitioning to a 50/50 guard.

Consolidating Side Control Pressure

The final position emphasizes heavy pressure applied through proper weight distribution in side control, with particular attention to maintaining the leg hook to prevent escape or guard recovery. This stable control position concludes the omoplata-to-side-control passing sequence.

BJJ Vault - Butterfly Pass & Omoplata Techniques

BJJ Vault

Butterfly Pass

3 min read·10 key moments·PT6M59S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Butterfly Pass Fundamentals
•Controlling the Opponent's Mobility
•Establishing Grips and Pressure
•Knee Positioning and Hip Rotation

Brad Jackson show some very effective ways to counter the butterfly guard. Sean Roberts shows some omoplata techniques that will make you feel more comfortable using omoplatas.

Related Techniques

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about butterfly pass?

This video covers introduction to butterfly pass fundamentals, controlling the opponent's mobility, establishing grips and pressure. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Vault.

How long does it take to learn butterfly pass?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.