Former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson recently provided commentary and analysis on a 2017 nogi grappling match between Dillon Danis and Gordon Ryan.
In the video breakdown on his YouTube channel, Johnson voiced criticisms of nogi Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He claims that there are fewer techniques available compared to gi jiu-jitsu.
Johnson argued that the lack of gi grips in nogi grappling leads to stalled positions, with opponents constantly pushing and posting off each other. He suggested that gi grips like the lapel and sleeves allow for more control of an opponent’s posture and provide more options to progress and initiate attacks.
“What I like about ti gi, vs Nogi is that you have more options to do something, control somebody’s posture.”
“In nogi, it’s constantly pushing, controlling your arms, pushing, pushing, looking to pass, pushing to pass. In no-gi, I pulled guard and I pulled the homeboy’s lapel and he was trying to pass my guard. And I was like, okay, I can’t get swept on my back because of the way you’re moving. I’m going back to my feet and I’ll reshoot again,” Johnson explained.
The former flyweight criticized the frequent guard pulling in the ADCC Danis vs. Ryan match, arguing that the competitors should have been forced to stay on their feet and wrestle after failed guard pass attempts. Johnson claimed this would make the matches more exciting for mainstream audiences less familiar with grappling exchanges.
Despite his critiques, Johnson acknowledged that the Danis vs. Ryan match displayed high-level grappling skills. While stating his preference for gi jiu-jitsu, Johnson praised the competitors’ techniques and toughness throughout the close and tactical match.
Johnson is currently a brown belt in BJJ and announced his intentions to keep competing in BJJ after his MMA career is done. He hasn’t competed in MMA for a hot minute, prompting many to question financial viability of ONE FC.
