What Is the Hardest Move in BJJ?

by Adrian Davis April 23, 2025

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a complex martial art with a vast array of techniques, ranging from fundamental basics to intricate, advanced moves. While what is considered the "hardest" move can be subjective, depending on individual skill level, flexibility, and experience, there are a few techniques consistently regarded as particularly challenging.

1. Berimbolo

What It Is: The Berimbolo is a modern, advanced guard technique used to take the back or sweep an opponent.
Why It's Hard: Requires exceptional coordination, flexibility, and a deep understanding of guard concepts. Executing it effectively means maintaining constant control of grips and balance.
Who Uses It: Popularized by the Mendes brothers, it’s primarily used in sport BJJ competitions.

2. Inverted Guard Techniques

What They Are: Moves that require being upside down, such as inverted De La Riva sweeps or inversions to leg entanglements.
Why They're Hard: Demands high levels of flexibility, strong core strength, and confidence in unusual positions. Not all practitioners can perform these due to physical limitations.
Risks: Potential for neck strain or injury if attempted without proper technique.

3. Flying Submissions (Flying Armbar, Flying Triangle)

What They Are: Dynamic submissions initiated from a standing position that immediately transition into a finish.
Why They're Hard: Require impeccable timing, explosive power, and precision. Mistiming can result in losing position or injury.
When Used: Often seen in competition for quick finishes, but rarely in casual training.

4. The Gogoplata

What It Is: A rare and flashy submission where the shin is used to choke the opponent, typically from guard or mount.
Why It's Hard: Requires extreme flexibility in the hips and legs, precise angling, and understanding of leverage.
Risk: High potential for missing the setup, leaving you vulnerable to counters.

5. The Kiss of the Dragon

What It Is: A back take from the Reverse De La Riva guard, involving inversion underneath the opponent.
Why It's Hard: Demands precise timing, awareness of the opponent’s weight distribution, and smooth inversion skills.
Advanced Skill: Usually attempted by experienced practitioners with strong inversion abilities.

6. Loop Choke Variations

What They Are: Loop chokes rely on a deep collar grip and quick adjustments to create a choke.
Why They're Hard: Effective against standing or passing opponents, but require excellent timing and grip control. Missed attempts can leave you exposed.
Mastery Required: Ideal for experienced practitioners with strong collar control.

Conclusion:

While these techniques are considered some of the hardest moves in BJJ, difficulty is subjective. What is challenging for one person may be achievable for another based on their body type, experience, and dedication to mastering the technique. Advanced moves should be attempted only under proper guidance to minimize the risk of injury.