Unlocking the Power of the Overhook X-Guard
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), guards are the foundation of offense from the bottom. Among the many variations, the overhook X-guard stands out as a versatile weapon, especially in no-gi scenarios common to MMA. Pioneered and popularized by black belt Tom Davey, this position combines deep ankle control with an overhook on the arm to create angles for explosive sweeps, leg entanglements, and even back attacks. Whether you're a competitor prepping for a tournament or a hobbyist sharpening your game, mastering this guard can elevate your bottom game significantly.
Tom Davey, a seasoned competitor and coach, breaks it down in a way that's accessible yet packed with nuances. It's not just about getting into the position—it's about chaining attacks to keep opponents guessing. Let's dive into the mechanics, entries, and finishes, with tips tailored for MMA fighters, BJJ practitioners, wrestlers transitioning to the mats, and even Muay Thai clinch specialists looking to improve ground work.
Why the Overhook X-Guard Rocks for Modern Grappling
Traditional X-guard hooks both legs inside the opponent's, but the overhook variation adds an arm control element. Your near-side arm overhooks the opponent's far arm, trapping it while your legs form the X-frame around their lead leg. This setup neutralizes their posture, blocks guard passes, and sets up high-percentage sweeps.
In MMA, where fights hit the ground unpredictably, this guard shines because:
- It's low-risk, high-reward: Deep leg control makes standing passes tough.
- Transitions seamlessly to leg locks: Ideal for modern no-gi rulesets.
- Works against bigger opponents: The overhook levels the leverage playing field.
For BJJ purists, it integrates beautifully with gi grips, while wrestlers appreciate the ankle elevation similar to single-leg counters.
Essential Entries into Overhook X-Guard
Getting to the position is step one. Tom emphasizes smooth transitions from common scenarios like open guard or after failed takedown attempts.
From Open Guard
1. As your opponent steps in to pass, shrimp your hips away to create space. 2. Hook their lead ankle with your far leg (the one away from their posture arm). 3. Swing your near leg over their thigh, crossing your shin behind their knee to lock the X-frame. 4. Secure the overhook: Reach under their far arm, grip your own wrist or bicep for control.Pro Tip: Use head pressure against their chest to off-balance them early. In MMA sparring, this entry flows naturally after sprawls.
From Butterfly Guard Recovery
- Elevate their leg with a butterfly hook.
- Transition by flattening your hips, inserting the X legs, and snagging the overhook.
Standing Entry (Combat Sport Gold)
In a scramble, drop low, scoop the ankle, and climb into X as they post. Wrestlers will love this—it's like a reactive guard pull.Breaking Down the Position: Grips and Frames
Once locked in:
- Leg configuration: Far shin hooks inside the ankle, near shin crosses high behind the knee. Pull their heel to your butt for depth.
- Overhook grip: Control their tricep or sleeve (in gi). Your head drives into their armpit to flatten them.
- Free hand: Post on the mat or grip their belt/waistband to control posture.
Common mistake: Loose legs. Squeeze your knees together like a vice—think of compressing their knee joint.
Devastating Sweeps from Overhook X-Guard
Tom Davey's favorite: The basic X-sweep with a twist.
The Classic X-Sweep
1. Overhook pulls their arm across your center line. 2. Explode your hips up, kicking both legs away while pushing their upper body. 3. They topple sideways—follow to top turtle or mount.MMA Variation: Chain to a back take if they roll forward. Perfect for transitioning to rear-naked chokes.
The Back Sweep
- Release the near leg hook slightly.
- Rotate your hips under their trapped leg.
- Use the overhook to torque them backward, circling to their back.
Ashi Garami Sweep
For leg lock hunters: 1. Switch your far foot to the outside of their ankle (inside heist position). 2. Overhook lifts their arm as you hip escape. 3. Sweep them forward into ashi garami for heel hooks or straight ankle locks.Safety note: In training, communicate taps clearly, especially in no-gi where grips slip.
Submissions and Transitions
Don't stop at sweeps—finish the deal:
- Armbar: Extend their trapped arm while bridging.
- Omoplata: Swing your leg over their head from the overhook.
- Straight Ankle Lock: From the ashi transition, isolate the foot.
In gi, sleeve grips amplify control; no-gi relies on wrist control and body pressure.
Drills to Internalize the Overhook X-Guard
Build muscle memory with these progressions:
1. Positional Sparring: Start in X-guard, sweep or submit 3x before switching.
2. Entry Chains: Flow from open guard to X to sweep, 5 reps per side.
3. Resistance Drills: Partner stands and passes lightly—recover to X every time.
4. Full Sparring Integration: In live rolls, hunt the position after every guard pull.
Gear Up Right: A quality no-gi rash guard and shorts from brands like Hayabusa or Venum provide the grip and mobility needed. For gi players, pair with a durable gi from Origin or Tatami. Head to Apollo MMA for top-tier options that withstand intense drilling.
Common Defenses and Counters
Opponents will try:
- Posturing up: Counter with stronger overhook and leg pull.
- Knee cut pass: Block with your free hand frame on their hip.
- Standing grip break: Shrimp aggressively and re-hook.
Tom advises: Always off-balance first. If they base out, transition to a different guard like reverse de la Riva.
Real-World Applications Across Combat Sports
- MMA: Use post-takedown defense to reverse positions quickly.
- BJJ Tournaments: Chain sweeps for points, then submit.
- Wrestling: Elevate legs to counter shots.
- Kickboxing/Muay Thai: Survive takedowns and sweep to scramble up.
Final Thoughts: Make Overhook X-Guard Your Secret Weapon
Tom Davey's overhook X-guard isn't flashy, but it's brutally effective. Drill it consistently, and it'll become a go-to in your arsenal. Fighters worldwide swear by it for its adaptability. Grab your gear from Apollo MMA, hit the mats, and start sweeping. What's your favorite guard variation? Share in the comments!
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