Bout back down to earth.

[michaelwbray]

Got bought back down to Earth in a big way last night. I've been doings Jiu Jitsu for just over a year now, training about 3 to 4 times per week. Hardly ever get tapped by white belts anymore.

Had just gone 2 X 5 min rounds with two blue belts without getting tapped and holding my own. Third round I went up against one of the newer white belts who had no previous experience, and had only being training with us for about 3 months. He tapped me out about 4 times in 5 mins.

Granted he was a bit bigger then me, but he just was so heavy on me all the time, always one step ahead, and had such good technique on him for a "new" player. Have you guys ever been caught out by someone that just picks up BJJ really fast and is good at it in a relatively short period of time?

[Ryan]

Have you ever thought he was being modest about his abilities? Maybe he has other grappling experience ie wrestling, JJJ, judo or maybe he just grappled alot with siblings

[Ari Bolden]

Ryan is right, SOME guys sandbag when they come into gyms. I remember about 5 years ago at my first dojo this small asain kid came in. I asked him if he had done any martial arts before and said "a little". So, I decided to 'take it easy' and see what the kid had. Ten seconds later the kid has me in a armbar off his back and I am tapping.

That was the LAST time I EVER underestimate anyone on the mat (or in the real world). I always expect the guy I am facing is much better than he says he is. I don't underestimate anyone's abilities anymore. It doesn't mean I am trying to kill the other guy but I roll for a bit with someone to see where they are at (and I don't leave limbs hanging out there to be taken). I also WATCH new guys when they come into the gym. If you study someone's game a bit, it can help. However, there are several guys out there that can fool you and hide their true ability until its time to 'roll it out.'

On the other hand, there are some real prodigies out there that are super gifted and athletic. They catch on very fast and their learning curve is really fast. These kids are just as good as someone who is one belt higher.

Moral of the story: Each guy you face is a potential ADCC champ...you never can tell.

[Ryan]

What did you do with the Asian kid Ari?

[Ari Bolden]

I never saw him again Ryan. Live and learn.

[MMAtt]

Got bought back down to Earth in a big way last night. I've been doings Jiu Jitsu for just over a year now, training about 3 to 4 times per week. Hardly ever get tapped by white belts anymore.

Had just gone 2 X 5 min rounds with two blue belts without getting tapped and holding my own. Third round I went up against one of the newer white belts who had no previous experience, and had only being training with us for about 3 months. He tapped me out about 4 times in 5 mins.

Granted he was a bit bigger then me, but he just was so heavy on me all the time, always one step ahead, and had such good technique on him for a "new" player. Have you guys ever been caught out by someone that just picks up BJJ really fast and is good at it in a relatively short period of time?

I'm 28 and have been training MMA for about a year now and have a few more years of martial arts experience. Anyway a few weeks ago i decided to roll with a 15yr old kid in the class just so i could work on my techniques...

I got my ass handed to me! This guy had beed doing judo since he could walk and had me pinned in a scarf hold more times than i can count!! I have to agree with Ari - 'live and learn'! :D

[adonis]

I wouldn't worry about it, it sucks getting tapped. However its part of training and a good thing. Did you take notes on what he caught you with so you can drill the defenses during open matt or after or before class with a partner? That will probably help.

[Ryan]

I never saw him again Ryan. Live and learn.

Thats strange. Must be one of those guys that comes around trying to embarass people. You think he was from a competitors school who was trying to take away students?