Foundation: The Windshield Wiper Drill
Before executing the X-Pass, practitioners must master the windshield wiper drill, a fundamental pummeling technique performed from the bottom position. The drill involves repeatedly driving the knees inside the opponent's legs to establish inside control. This foundational movement is essential for setting up the subsequent X-Pass technique.
Understanding Inside Control
Inside control—when the top player's legs are positioned inside the bottom player's legs—is critical for successful guard passing. The bottom player naturally fights to prevent this by maintaining butterfly hooks and outside leg positioning. The top player must actively pummel and establish inside control before attempting the X-Pass.
Eliminating the Hook with Knee Placement
Once inside control is established, the top player must neutralize the opponent's hooks by dropping the knee onto the ankle bone rather than the shin. This precise placement creates immense pressure, as the weight transfers directly into the opponent's hip, making it impossible for them to lift or escape. The heel should simultaneously rise and flare toward the ceiling, creating a tight, compact position.
Hand Positioning for the X-Pass Setup
After securing inside control and neutralizing the hooks, the practitioner places one hand on the opponent's hip and the other on the knee. This hand placement allows the top player to maintain control and distance while preparing for the explosive leg drive. The positioning brings the passer close enough to execute the pass without allowing the opponent time to reset their guard.
The Explosive Mule Kick and Transition
As the opponent attempts to clamp their legs shut, the top player executes a rapid mule kick, driving the leg straight into the air before immediately transitioning to knee-on-belly. This explosive movement surprises the opponent and prevents them from fully securing their guard or trapping the leg. The entire pass—from pummeling to knee-on-belly—should be performed with speed and minimal steps.
Timing and Speed: Keys to Success
The X-Pass relies heavily on timing and explosive speed to prevent the opponent from closing their guard or establishing control. The practitioner should immediately transition from the pummeling phase to hand placement and then directly into the mule kick before the opponent can react. Hesitation at any point gives the defender time to clamp the legs or move their hips away.
Position Variations and Alternatives
While the direct mule kick is preferred, practitioners may take one step with the outside leg if the initial position is not optimal. However, additional steps should be avoided whenever possible, as they waste momentum and give the opponent opportunity to escape. Whether executing the pass with or without a step, the final result should be immediate knee-on-belly control.
From Knee-on-Belly to Side Control
Once knee-on-belly is achieved, the practitioner can transition directly into full side control. This final positioning establishes dominant control and sets up numerous submission and positional attacks. The smooth transition from X-Pass to side control completes a high-percentage guard passing sequence.
How I use X-Pass to crush my opponent's guard
Key Takeaways
- •Foundation: The Windshield Wiper Drill
- •Understanding Inside Control
- •Eliminating the Hook with Knee Placement
- •Hand Positioning for the X-Pass Setup
Learn one of the most feared passing systems in all of Jiu-Jitsu! Coach Zahabi teaches details that will dramatically improve your passing ability. As always Coach Zahabi unique teaching style cuts straight to the heart of the matter by taking you through the X-Pass progressions. Whether you're new to Jiu-Jitsu or a seasoned expert, you will love this instructional. Coach Zahabi takes you through the system from very basic speed drills all the way to more complex and sophisticated X-Pass progressions. Grab the X-Pass Mastery instructional here: https://www.jujiclub.com/collections/all-videos/products/x-pass-mastery-must-have JUJICLUB10 gets you 10$ off your order from the incredible instructional library that Coach Zahabi built at https://www.jujiclub.com ------- Follow Coach on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firas_zahabi/ Find all the martial arts and strength & conditioning training here: https://www.jujiclub.com Click here to join Tristar Gym Digital: https://tristargymdigital.com/ The best way to learn the approach to martial art and strong and stable lifestyle that coach Zahabi present is here! Over 30 videos in library to change your approach to Jiu-jitsu, striking and strength and conditioning. Plus! Other experts share their martial arts knowledge on the website. Buy here: www.Jujiclub.com Use code: JUJICLUB10 for 10$ off your order ------- Tristar Gym Digital is now Live!!! You can now train at the Tristar Gym with Coach Zahabi from anywhere in the world. Learn the basics, leg locks, advanced Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, Striking technics and everything Mixed Martial Arts. This is the most complete martial arts program in the world! Click here to join Tristar Gym Digital https://tristargymdigital.com/ * Use promo code starfromheaven and get 20% off!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about x pass?
This video covers foundation: the windshield wiper drill, understanding inside control, eliminating the hook with knee placement. It provides detailed instruction from Tristar Gym.
How long does it take to learn x 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 x pass?
While the direct mule kick is preferred, practitioners may take one step with the outside leg if the initial position is not optimal. However, additional steps should be avoided whenever possible, as they waste momentum and give the opponent opportunity to escape. Whether executing the pass with or without a step, the final result should be immediate knee-on-belly control.
