Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a game of leverage, timing, and finesse. One of the most effective techniques for passing an opponent’s guard is the X-Pass. Simple yet powerful, the X-Pass is an essential tool for both beginners and advanced practitioners.
What is the X-Pass?
The X-Pass is a standing guard pass, where you combine strategic grips and movement to cut through your opponent’s defenses. It’s called the “X-Pass” because of the way your body moves—much like drawing an “X” as you switch directions to bypass the guard. Unlike many passes that involve heavy pressure, the X-Pass relies on speed, agility, and precision to take your opponent by surprise.
Breaking Down the Technique
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the basic X-Pass:
- Start in a standing position: You’re hovering over your opponent, who has you in an open guard, maybe looking to sweep or attack you. Your goal is to keep your posture strong and prevent them from breaking your base.
- Control the legs: Use your hands to grip your opponent’s pants or legs. One of the most common grips is to control their knee with one hand while pushing down on their opposite ankle with the other.
- Step to the side: With your grip in place, step back with the leg on the side of the controlled knee. This opens up a gap for you to move. Make sure you keep your posture upright to avoid getting caught in any sneaky sweeps.
- Throw the leg aside: Using your grip on the knee, push or “chop” their leg across their body while simultaneously stepping to the side. This is where the magic happens—this movement clears the path for you to pass their guard.
- Drop into side control: As soon as you’ve cleared the legs, drop your knee and upper body down into side control. Be mindful of your opponent’s hips—stay tight and control their upper body to prevent them from recovering guard.
Why the X-Pass is So Effective
The beauty of the X-Pass is in its versatility. You don’t have to rely on sheer strength or outmuscle your opponent. Instead, the combination of strategic grips and quick movement lets you bypass the guard with finesse. This makes it a great pass for anyone, no matter your size or strength. Plus, it works against various types of guards—whether it’s spider guard, lasso, or any open guard variation, the X-Pass can be adapted to find your way through.
Another key factor is timing. Because you’re standing and moving quickly, you catch your opponent in a transitional moment, often before they can react or establish a strong guard defense. This element of surprise can be the difference between getting stuck in guard and moving into dominant positions like side control or mount.
Incorporating the X-Pass into Your Game
If you haven’t drilled the X-Pass before, start slowly. Get comfortable with the grips, footwork, and the way your body moves. Work with a partner to perfect your timing. Once you feel confident, you can add variations—like feinting to one side and passing to the other, or using the X-Pass as a setup for other techniques.
The more you practice, the more natural the X-Pass will feel. And soon, you’ll find it becoming one of your go-to passes, especially in fast-paced, dynamic rolls where fluid movement is key.
Wrapping Up
At Southern Soul Academy, we love teaching techniques like the X-Pass because they emphasize the elegance of BJJ—using timing and leverage rather than brute force. Whether you’re in class with us working on your passes or hitting the competition mats, keep sharpening your tools and adding to your arsenal. The X-Pass is one that will serve you well for years to come.
See you on the mats, and let’s keep rolling!
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