When it comes to martial arts coaching, it isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating an environment where athletes can truly grow. In a recent podcast, Tiger Muay Thai head coach Joseph Henle shared insights into the complex world of training athletes.
In a social media exchange that has the grappling community buzzing, Tiger Muay Thai Head Coach Joseph Henle has stepped into the ongoing debate about guard pulling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions with a direct and passionate defense of the technique.
The discussion gained momentum after former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling expressed frustration following a loss to Kevin Dantzler at Fury Pro 8, where his opponent frequently employed guard pulling and butt-scooting tactics. Sterling’s teammate, Merab Dvalishvili, later faced the same opponent and shared similar concerns, stating that such tactics “give Jiu-Jitsu a bad name.”
Henle’s response cuts straight to the heart of the matter: “Then why are you running away from the dude scooting on his butt? Man up. Go pass that guard,” he stated, challenging critics of the technique. “Well, I wanted to take him down. Well, he’s already down. Get on to the next aspect of it.”
The debate has drawn in other notable figures, including Craig Jones, who offered his perspective on The MMA Hour: “Like we look very gay in what we do, you know. But at the same time if I look at another man across, especially as an Australian, we didn’t grow up with any wrestling, if I look at another man and I go ‘that guy can wrestle,’ well, god damn it. I’m gonna sit down before he takes me down.”
Henle acknowledges the frustrating aspects of dealing with guard pullers, particularly when smaller opponents target the legs. “Does it suck when little guys are going for your legs? Absolutely. I hate it. It’s like forgetting to put your mosquito spray on and then going on at dusk in Thailand. It’s annoying.”
However, he maintains a firm stance on the legitimacy of the technique within the sport: “If you want to wrestle, there’s a freestyle wrestling tournament. We can ship you to Russia. Somebody will kick your a*s and throw you over the top,” adding emphatically, “I get that you want to do wrestling. I get it. I do. But I like doing jujitsu.”
