Introduction to Far Side Underhook Pass
The far side underhook serves as an alternative entry when the near side underhook is unavailable. Rather than forcing the traditional cross-face underhook, this technique uses the far side underhook to establish control and transition into a dominant passing position.
Head Positioning Principle
Once the far side underhook is secured, the instructor's head must move to the opposite side from the underhook. This head placement mirrors the mechanics used in the high trap pass and is essential for establishing control over the opponent's hips and base.
Knee Pinch and Hip Immobilization
As the legs walk up into position, constant knee pinch pressure on the near side hip prevents the opponent from rotating or bridging away. This immobilization of the hip is a critical detail that must be felt and maintained throughout the pass to prevent the opponent from recovering guard.
Transitioning to Knee Cut
From the established position with knee pinch active, the instructor can attempt a knee cut toward side control. However, the opponent will typically defend by pushing on the hip or underhook hand.
Head Switch to Far Side
When the opponent applies wizard grip pressure, switching the head to the far side dramatically improves control. This repositioning prevents the opponent from pulling the elbows in while maintaining superior leverage over their body.
Double Underhook Timing
The instructor should not commit to double underhooks until reaching three-quarter mount position. Attempting this transition too early risks risky hand placement and allows the opponent to recover guard if they secure strong wizard grips.
Tripod Position and Guard Restart
By maintaining the knee pinch and establishing a strong tripod position, the instructor creates pressure that naturally encourages the opponent into the near side underhook position. This allows the pass to reset with improved leverage for the walking leg sequence.
General Passing Principle
The core strategy for guard passing is to seek an underhook while simultaneously establishing head placement on the opposite side. The far side underhook can serve as the initial entry point to achieve this dominant configuration and progress toward the near side underhook finish.
Far Side To Near Side by Craig Jones
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Far Side Underhook Pass
- •Head Positioning Principle
- •Knee Pinch and Hip Immobilization
- •Transitioning to Knee Cut
FAR SIDE TO NEAR SIDE https://bjjfanatics.com This sample clip is from the "Higher Tripod Passing by Craig Jones" BJJ Instructional video available here: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/higher-tripod-passing-by-craig-jones Click Here To Check Out Craig Jones's Instructional Videos - https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_Craig-Jones To learn more great Jiu Jitsu Techniques, visit https://www.bjjfanatics.com BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=en 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://bjjfanatics.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about opposite side pass?
This video covers introduction to far side underhook pass, head positioning principle, knee pinch and hip immobilization. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.
How long does it take to learn opposite side pass?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing opposite side pass?
By maintaining the knee pinch and establishing a strong tripod position, the instructor creates pressure that naturally encourages the opponent into the near side underhook position. This allows the pass to reset with improved leverage for the walking leg sequence.




