From Tradition to the Cage: Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, BJJ and Sambo Explained

Traditional Japanese jiu-jitsu laid the foundation for judo, sambo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. It combined strikes, chokes and joint locks.

Judo kept only the grappling side of jiu-jitsu — no strikes allowed. Today it’s mostly a sport, not a combat system, with the action centered in the stand-up.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu focuses purely on ground fighting, offering a wider range of submissions and chokes.

Sambo blends throws, holds and striking, making it the closest style to original jiu-jitsu — adapted for real combat.

More on traditional Japanese jiu-jitsu we covered here, on judo here, and on sambo here.