Why the Knee Slice Pass is a Game-Changer in BJJ and MMA
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), grappling, and mixed martial arts (MMA), passing the guard effectively is a cornerstone skill. The knee slice pass stands out as one of the most reliable and versatile techniques for breaking through an opponent's closed or open guard. Pioneered and refined by top competitors, it allows you to slice your knee across the defender's thigh while controlling posture, creating openings for side control or mount.
Gustavo Gasperin, a seasoned black belt instructor, breaks down his favorite knee slice variations and combos in this guide. Whether you're rolling in a gi for BJJ tournaments, training no-gi for MMA, or drilling wrestling-style passes, these setups will sharpen your top game. Pair them with quality gear like a durable BJJ gi or rash guard from Apollo MMA to stay comfortable during intense sessions.
We'll dive into the foundational knee slice, then explore combo chains that keep opponents guessing. Each includes detailed steps, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for seamless transitions—perfect for white belts building fundamentals or black belts chaining attacks.
The Basic Knee Slice Pass: Foundation of Fluid Guard Passing
Start here to build a rock-solid base. This pass works against both closed guard and butterfly guard, emphasizing speed, pressure, and hip mobility.
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
1. Posture and Grip Setup: From closed guard, break your opponent's posture by posting one hand on their hip and the other pinching their sleeve or collar. Elevate your chest high to create distance. 2. Knee Insertion: Step your outside leg back for base. Drive your knee (same side as the gripping hand) across their thigh line, aiming for the hip pocket. Your shin should pressure their inner thigh while your toes point outward for control. 3. Hip Switch and Slice: As your knee lands, switch your hips explosively toward their head. Walk your inserted knee up their body, slicing through to isolate the leg. 4. Finish in Side Control: Once past the hips, drop your weight into side control. Block the underhook with your elbow and secure the far arm.Pro Tip: Common error? Hesitating on the knee insertion—commit fully or risk getting reguarded. Drill this 50 reps per side to ingrain the motion. In MMA contexts, this flows perfectly into ground-and-pound setups.
For wrestling enthusiasts, adapt it no-gi by gripping behind the knee instead of fabric.
Combo #1: Knee Slice to Toreando Pass – Speed and Deception
When the basic slice stalls, chain to the toreando (speed pass) for momentum. This combo exploits overreactions, ideal for open guard scenarios.
Execution Flow:
- Initiate Knee Slice: Enter as above, but if they push your knee or shrimp away...
- Pull and Step: Release grips momentarily. Step wide with your passing leg while pulling their legs across your body like a matador dodging a bull.
- Circle and Land: Circle your hips behind them, landing in knee-on-belly or side control.
Why It Works: Defenders expect pressure but get yanked off-balance. Gasperin emphasizes explosive footwork—wear supportive grappling shorts to avoid slips.
Combo #2: Knee Slice to Leg Drag – Advanced Control Chain
Elevate to black belt level with this leg drag follow-up. Perfect for tenacious half guard or lasso players.
Detailed Steps:
1. Knee Slice Entry: Pressure their thigh, but bait the frame. 2. Drag the Leg: As they post on your knee, circle your arm under their far leg (trapping it). Your other hand swims under the near leg. 3. Elevate and Pass: Lift both legs high, step over, and drop into side control or north-south.Error Fix: Don't drag too early—wait for their investment. In no-gi MMA, use wrist control for the drag.
Real-World Application: Seen in ONE Championship and UFC scrambles. Add wrestling for drag proficiency.
Combo #3: Knee Slice to Back Take – Opportunistic Aggression
Gasperin loves turning passes into attacks. This chains to the back for submissions.
Breakdown:
- Slice and Overhook: During the slice, feed an overhook on their bottom arm.
- Hip to Hip: Rotate hips to isolate, then spin to the back as they turn away.
- Seatbelt Secure: Lock the seatbelt grip and attack the rear-naked choke.
Combo #4: Double Knee Slice – Pressure for Stubborn Guards
For deep half or worm guards:
1. Insert first knee, then stack and slide the second knee beside it.
2. Double-slice forward, collapsing their hips.
3. Transition to mount.
Adaptation: Gi users pinch pants; no-gi grips calves.
Additional Variations and Drills
- Reverse Knee Slice: From reverse de la Riva—slice inward.
- Knee Slice to Knee Cut: For low open guard, cut under the knee post-slice.
- Solo: Shadow pass 100x.
- Partner: Positional sparring, 5-min rounds.
- Live: Flow roll focusing on chains.
Gear Essentials for Knee Slice Mastery
Technical passes demand reliable equipment:
- BJJ Gi: Durable weaves prevent rips during grips (e.g., Fuji or Tatami).
- Rash Guards: Hyperfly or Scramble for no-gi slides.
- Grappling Shorts: Venum or Sanabul for mobility.
Browse Apollo MMA for premium options tailored to your discipline.
Final Thoughts: Chain, Adapt, Dominate
Gustavo Gasperin's knee slice combos transform static passes into dynamic attacks. Drill consistently, adapt to resistance, and watch your passing rate soar. From BJJ mats to MMA cages, these tools prepare you for competition. Ready to level up? Hit the mats with confidence and quality gear.
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