Sport ComparisonsMMA

MMA vs BJJ: Key Differences and Which to Choose in 2026

Author:Ryutai Viladecans
Published on:
12 min
MMA vs BJJ: Key Differences and Which to Choose in 2026

MMA vs BJJ: Key Differences and Which to Choose

MMA or BJJ? This is one of the most frequent questions we receive at Ryutai II. Both disciplines have revolutionized the world of martial arts, but they are very different in philosophy, technique and objectives.

If you're deciding between starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Mixed Martial Arts, this guide will help you understand the real differences and choose the perfect option for you. We offer both disciplines at our Viladecans location, so we know the pros and cons of each well.

What is MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)?

MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) is a combat sport that combines techniques from multiple martial arts. An MMA fighter needs to master:

  • Striking: Boxing, Kick Boxing, Muay Thai
  • Wrestling: Takedowns and control
  • Grappling: BJJ, Judo, Sambo

Origins of MMA

Although no-rules fights have existed since ancient times, modern MMA was born in 1993 with the first UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). The idea was simple: which martial art is most effective in real combat?

It was quickly demonstrated that no single style was sufficient on its own. BJJ fighters dominated the early tournaments (Royce Gracie won UFC 1, 2 and 4), but soon everyone started cross-training.

Basic MMA Rules

In professional MMA (UFC, Bellator, ONE Championship):

AspectRule
Rounds3 x 5 min (5 x 5 min for titles)
VictoryKO, submission, judges' decision
AllowedStrikes, takedowns, submissions
ProhibitedStrikes to back of head, eye pokes, headbutts
Protection4oz gloves, shorts, mouthguard

MMA is the most complete combat sport because it simulates a real confrontation with few restrictions.

What is BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)?

BJJ is a martial art focused on ground combat. Its main philosophy is that a smaller person can defeat a larger opponent using technique, leverage and chokes.

BJJ Philosophy

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has roots in Japanese Judo, adapted by the Gracie family in Brazil. Its motto is "technique overcomes strength." Unlike MMA, BJJ:

  • Does not include strikes in training or competition
  • Uses a belt system (white to black)
  • Has a very united community and philosophy of respect
  • Can be practiced at any age with low injury risk

The Belt System

BeltApproximate TimeCharacteristics
WhiteBeginningSurvival, basic defense
Blue1-2 yearsFundamental techniques
Purple3-5 yearsOwn game, variations
Brown6-8 yearsInstructor level, refinement
Black10+ yearsMastery, pedagogy

Achieving a BJJ black belt takes an average of 10-15 years of constant training. It's one of the most demanding grading systems.

Key Differences: MMA vs BJJ

Here's the technical comparison that will help you decide:

AspectMMABJJ
StrikingFundamental (punches, kicks, elbows)Not included
GroundPart of the gameCenter of the art
ObjectiveKnock out or submitSubmit only
CompetitionCage/ring, full combatMat, no strikes
EquipmentGloves, shortsKimono (Gi) or No-Gi
Grading systemDoesn't officially existBelts (white to black)
InjuriesHigher risk (strikes)Lower risk
Age to startIdeal 16-35Any age

The Striking Factor

The most obvious difference is that MMA includes striking and BJJ does not. This completely changes the dynamic:

  • In MMA: You need to know how to strike and defend against strikes before you can apply your BJJ
  • In BJJ: You focus 100% on grip technique, control and submission

A pure BJJ practitioner can be devastating on the ground, but if they don't know how to close distance against someone who strikes, they'll never get to apply their game.

The Learning Curve

  • MMA: You need to be "good" at 3-4 different disciplines. The initial curve is steeper because there's a lot to learn.
  • BJJ: You specialize in one thing. You can start feeling competent in 6-12 months, although mastery takes years.

For absolute beginners, BJJ is usually more rewarding in the short term because progress is more tangible.

Which to Choose Based on Your Goal?

For Self-Defense

  • Best option: Depends on context
  • BJJ allows you to control someone without causing serious harm. Ideal if you want to neutralize without escalating violence.
  • MMA prepares you for scenarios where strikes are involved.

My recommendation: Start with BJJ for fundamentals, then add MMA if you want to be prepared for everything.

For Competition

  • MMA: If you dream of the cage, UFC or Bellator
  • BJJ: If you prefer no-strike competition, there are tournaments every month

The BJJ circuit is much more accessible. You can compete from white belt in categories by age and weight. MMA requires more preparation before stepping up to compete.

For Fitness and Health

Both are excellent for getting in shape:

BenefitMMABJJ
CardioVery intenseModerate-high
StrengthHigh (whole body)Medium (grip, core)
FlexibilityMediumHigh
Injury riskHigherLower
StressGood for releaseExcellent (meditative)

BJJ has an almost "meditative" component that many describe as human chess. MMA is more explosive and adrenaline-fueled.

By Age

  • Children (6-14 years): BJJ is ideal. Develops coordination, discipline and defense without risk.
  • Teenagers (14-18): Can start MMA with supervision
  • Young adults (18-35): Either, it's the ideal age for competitive MMA
  • Adults (35-50): BJJ recommended for lower impact
  • Seniors (50+): BJJ, adapting intensity

Can You Practice Both?

Absolutely! In fact, it's what we recommend at Ryutai II. BJJ is a fundamental component of modern MMA. All UFC champions have a solid ground game.

The ideal combination for a complete fighter is:

  1. BJJ base: Learn to move on the ground, positions, escapes, submissions
  2. Striking: Add Kick Boxing or Muay Thai for the standup game
  3. MMA: Integrate everything in sparring and full combat

At our Viladecans location we offer MMA, BJJ, Grappling and Boxing classes. Many students combine 2-3 disciplines per week.

BJJ vs Judo vs Grappling: The Bonus

A frequent question is the difference between these three grappling disciplines:

DisciplineMain FocusUniformEmphasis
BJJGround, submissionsGi (kimono) or No-GiPosition and control
JudoTakedowns (throws)Gi requiredThrowing the opponent
GrapplingNo-strike wrestling (general)Without kimonoTakedowns + ground
  • BJJ vs Judo: Judo focuses on throwing the opponent, BJJ on submitting them on the ground. They're complementary.
  • Grappling vs BJJ: Grappling is a broad term. No-Gi BJJ is a type of grappling, but with specific techniques.

For MMA, No-Gi Grappling is more applicable because you don't depend on the kimono to grip.

Conclusion: MMA or BJJ?

There's no universal answer. The best discipline depends on you:

Choose BJJ if...Choose MMA if...
You prefer technique over strengthYou want to be a complete fighter
You seek low injury riskYou don't mind taking hits
You're attracted to philosophy and communityYou dream of competing in the cage
You're over 35 years oldYou're 18-35 with good conditioning
You want a hobby for lifeYou seek maximum adrenaline

My advice: If you can, try both. At Ryutai II we offer free trial classes in both MMA and BJJ. Nothing like feeling each discipline in your own body.


Try MMA and BJJ at Ryutai II Viladecans

At our location at C/del Sol, 64 we offer:

  • MMA: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
  • BJJ/Grappling: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
  • Boxing: Every day

First class FREE. Come try without commitment and discover which is your martial art.

Book Your Free Class | View Schedule | Visit Our Location

Instructor: Ryutai Team - MMA and BJJ competitors with national competition experience.

Tags

mmabjjbrazilian jiu-jitsuartes marciales mixtasgrapplingcomparativa

Share article

Share article:WhatsApp

Ready to start your Martial Arts journey?

Join over 200 students already training with us in Viladecans. First class free, no commitment required.

Related Articles

MMA vs BJJ - Key Differences and Which to Choose [2026 Guide]