3-4 Mount Bottom represents a defensive position where the practitioner is on their back with the opponent in a modified mount position, characterized by the top player having three points of contact on one side and four on the other (three limbs on the ground on one side, four on the other). This asymmetric position creates unique escape opportunities compared to traditional mount bottom, as the weight distribution is uneven and specific angles become available for defensive movement.
The position occurs when the top player transitions between mount variations or when the bottom player begins defensive movements that shift the top player’s base. Understanding 3-4 Mount Bottom is essential for mount escape development, as it represents a critical transitional state where proper defensive frames and hip movement can lead to successful escapes or guard recovery. The asymmetric nature of the position means that escape routes differ significantly from standard mount escapes, requiring specific technical knowledge.
From a positional hierarchy perspective, 3-4 Mount Bottom is a high-risk defensive position worth -4 points in IBJJF competition, requiring immediate defensive action to prevent submissions and create escape opportunities. Success in this position depends on recognizing the specific 3-4 configuration, establishing proper defensive frames, and exploiting the inherent instability in the top player’s asymmetric base.
Position Definition
- Bottom player’s back is flat on the mat with shoulders pinned, facing upward with opponent’s hips positioned on the torso/abdomen creating downward pressure through asymmetric weight distribution
- Top player has asymmetric base with three points of contact (e.g., both knees plus one hand) on one side and four points (e.g., both knees, hand, and posted foot) on the other side, creating uneven weight distribution
- Bottom player’s hips are controlled beneath opponent’s weight but with potential mobility due to asymmetric pressure, arms positioned to create defensive frames protecting neck and preventing chest-to-chest connection
- Top player maintains dominant position above bottom player’s center of gravity, though base stability is compromised compared to traditional mount due to weight shift toward one side
Prerequisites
- Opponent has achieved mount position with weight on torso
- Asymmetric base has been established by top player (intentionally or during transition)
- Bottom player is on back with shoulders to mat
- Top player’s weight distribution creates 3-4 configuration
- Defensive frames are compromised or being established
Key Defensive Principles
- Recognize the asymmetric weight distribution and identify the lighter side for escape attempts
- Maintain defensive frames with elbows tight to body, preventing chest-to-chest connection and protecting neck from choke attempts
- Create hip mobility by bridging toward the heavier side to disrupt base, then escaping toward the lighter side
- Control opponent’s sleeves or wrists to prevent posting and base recovery during escape movements
- Keep chin tucked and protect neck at all times, never allowing opponent to establish collar grips or arm positioning for chokes
- Use small, controlled movements rather than explosive panic responses to conserve energy and maintain structural integrity
- Coordinate bridge and shrimp movements to systematically create space and angle for guard recovery or positional improvement
Available Escapes
Elbow Escape → Half Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 30%
- Intermediate: 45%
- Advanced: 60%
Bridge and Roll → Closed Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 20%
- Intermediate: 35%
- Advanced: 50%
Shrimp Escape → Open Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 25%
- Intermediate: 40%
- Advanced: 55%
Hip Escape → Open Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 22%
- Intermediate: 38%
- Advanced: 52%
Frame and Shrimp → Half Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 18%
- Intermediate: 32%
- Advanced: 48%
Upa Escape → Closed Guard
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 25%
- Intermediate: 40%
- Advanced: 55%
Decision Making from This Position
If opponent has asymmetric base with clear weight distribution to one side and hands are posted high:
- Execute Bridge and Roll → Mount (Probability: 45%)
- Execute Upa Escape → Closed Guard (Probability: 40%)
If opponent drops weight low with chest pressure but maintains 3-4 configuration:
- Execute Elbow Escape → Half Guard (Probability: 50%)
- Execute Shrimp Escape → Open Guard (Probability: 45%)
If opponent attempts to transition to traditional mount or high mount:
- Execute Frame and Shrimp → Half Guard (Probability: 48%)
- Execute Hip Escape → Open Guard (Probability: 42%)
If opponent isolates one arm for submission attempt:
- Execute Bridge and Roll → Closed Guard (Probability: 35%)
- Execute Elbow Escape → Half Guard (Probability: 40%)
Escape and Survival Paths
Shortest defensive path to safety
3-4 Mount Bottom → Elbow Escape → Half Guard → Guard retention established
High-percentage reversal path
3-4 Mount Bottom → Bridge and Roll → Mount → Positional dominance
Conservative recovery path
3-4 Mount Bottom → Frame and Shrimp → Open Guard → Closed Guard
Dynamic escape to standing
3-4 Mount Bottom → Hip Escape → Technical Stand-up → Standing Position → Neutral position
Success Rates and Statistics
| Skill Level | Retention Rate | Advancement Probability | Submission Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 15% | 25% | 0% |
| Intermediate | 30% | 40% | 0% |
| Advanced | 45% | 55% | 5% |
Average Time in Position: 30-90 seconds before escape or submission