Judo Olympic Medalist Travis Stevens: When I do BJJ I Mostly use Wrestling

Travis Stevens is probably America’s Best Judoka. He’s also 2012 and 2016 Olympic Medalist. In 2012 he lost to Ole Bischof by points in semi-finals. And in the 2016 Olympics, he won a Silver medal Medal. Most of his matches on Olympics 2016 he won by his superior ground game. One of his best Judo victories is one over Flavio Canto, Judo legend.

Travis is also a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under John Danaher. He earned his Black Belt in only 18 months and that’s the fastest earned Black Belt in BJJ History. Check out the list of the Fastest Jiu Jitsu Black Belts promotions.

As Olympics Judo Medalist let see what he has to say about Judo and Wrestling usage in BJJ. He posted on his Facebook account.

“Here is a quick shot on your opponents ankle that you can do to score a quick 2 points. Having a little bit of basic basic wrestling can really help you with your takedown game. That says a lot coming from a judo guy. But when I do BJJ I mostly use wrestling.  My judo is just use to intimate people on the feet but I almost never pull the trigger on the throws.”

“Having takedowns that your opponent don’t see coming that are not consistent is important. That’s what this technique is for me. Something that isn’t done that often but it has a high percentage of working because it really catches my opponents off guard. I will give this disclaimer though: Don’t do this against a good wrestler (good meaning national level or higher).”

Travis posted a video of an “Ankle Pick” that you can do to score 2 points.

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