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Worm Guard Bottom | BJJ Position Guide | BJJ Graph

Oct 25, 202517 min read

Worm Guard Bottom

bjjstateguardopen-guardlapel-guardwormadvanced

State Properties

  • State ID: S222
  • Point Value: 0 (Neutral)
  • Position Type: Offensive
  • Risk Level: Medium
  • Energy Cost: Medium
  • Time Sustainability: Medium-Long

State Description

Worm Guard Bottom is an innovative lapel-based guard system developed by Keenan Cornelius that uses the opponent’s gi lapel woven through their own legs to create unique control and attack opportunities. The position combines lapel control with precise leg placement to create a control system that is extremely difficult to pass when executed correctly, while offering powerful sweeps and back take opportunities.

The guard is established by extracting the opponent’s lapel (typically the same-side lapel), feeding it under their leg, and wrapping it around your own shin or foot to create a tight connection. This lapel weave creates a mechanical control that restricts the opponent’s movement and posture in ways that traditional guard systems cannot replicate. The position is heavily dependent on gi grips and cannot be applied in no-gi contexts.

Worm guard excels against opponents who are unfamiliar with the system, as the control mechanisms and attack patterns are highly unusual compared to traditional guards. The position requires significant technical knowledge and practice to execute effectively, but rewards dedicated study with a guard system that can shut down even expert passers. The learning curve is steep, but the payoff is substantial for gi-based competitors.

Visual Description

You are on your back with your opponent’s lapel extracted and woven through the space under their own leg, then wrapped around your shin or foot on the same side, creating a tight connection between their gi and your leg. Your wrapped leg typically hooks behind their thigh or knee, using the lapel tension to control their leg’s position and prevent them from backing out or circling away. Your free leg extends to manage distance, often with a foot on their hip, knee, or bicep to prevent them from collapsing forward pressure onto you. Your hands maintain strategic grips—one controlling their sleeve on the opposite side to break their posture and prevent defensive grips, the other may hold their pants, belt, or additional lapel material to enhance control. Your hips remain active despite the seemingly static lapel connection, constantly adjusting angles to off-balance your opponent and create sweep opportunities. The worm guard creates an unusual trapped feeling for your opponent, as their own gi and leg are working against them, limiting their passing options to unconventional paths that you can predict and counter.

Key Principles

  • Lapel Weave Integrity: Maintain constant tension on the lapel wrapped through opponent’s leg and around your shin to preserve primary control mechanism
  • Leg Pin Control: Use lapel-wrapped leg to pin opponent’s leg in place, preventing backward escape or leg extraction which would break the guard
  • Opposite Side Disruption: Control opponent’s opposite sleeve to break symmetry and posture, making it impossible for them to establish stable passing pressure
  • Distance Management with Free Leg: Actively use free leg to manage optimal distance, preventing close-range smash while maintaining attack ranges
  • Hip Angle Adjustment: Constantly adjust hip angles despite lapel connection to create off-balancing forces that set up sweeps
  • Predictive Counter Strategy: Understand that worm guard forces opponent into limited passing options which you can anticipate and counter systematically
  • Grip Endurance Focus: Worm guard requires sustained grip strength on lapel and sleeve; develop grip endurance for extended exchanges

Offensive Transitions

From this position, you can execute:

Sweeps

  • Worm Guard Sweep → Mount or Side Control Top (Success Rate: Beginner 30%, Intermediate 50%, Advanced 70%)

    • Classic worm guard sweep using lapel control and leg pin to off-balance opponent for directional sweep

  • Squid Guard Transition Sweep → Back Control (Success Rate: Beginner 25%, Intermediate 45%, Advanced 65%)

    • Transition from worm to squid guard (more advanced lapel position) then sweep to back

  • Overhead Lapel Sweep → Mount (Success Rate: Beginner 20%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 60%)

    • Throw opponent overhead using lapel control and leg elevation for spectacular sweep

  • Technical Stand-Up from Worm → Standing Position (Success Rate: Beginner 35%, Intermediate 50%, Advanced 65%)

    • Use worm control to stand while maintaining connection for takedown or scramble

Back Takes

  • Worm to Back Take → Back Control (Success Rate: Beginner 30%, Intermediate 50%, Advanced 70%)

    • Use lapel control and leg pin to create back exposure as opponent attempts to clear the guard

  • Inverted Worm Back Take → Back Control (Success Rate: Beginner 25%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 55%)

    • Invert under opponent using worm control to access back position

Position Improvements

  • Squid Guard Entry → Squid Guard Position (Success Rate: Beginner 35%, Intermediate 55%, Advanced 70%)

    • Transition to more advanced squid guard variation for additional attack options

  • Ringworm Position → Ringworm Guard (Success Rate: Beginner 30%, Intermediate 45%, Advanced 60%)

    • Advance to ringworm position where both legs are woven with lapel for enhanced control

Guard Retention

Submissions

  • Triangle from Worm → Triangle Control (Success Rate: Beginner 20%, Intermediate 30%, Advanced 45%)

    • Bring free leg over for triangle while maintaining worm control for setup

  • Omoplata from Worm → Omoplata Control (Success Rate: Beginner 20%, Intermediate 35%, Advanced 50%)

    • Roll under for omoplata using worm control to maintain connection through transition

Defensive Responses

When opponent has this position against you, available counters:

Decision Tree

If opponent is unfamiliar with worm guard (showing confusion):

Else if opponent attempts to back out or disengage:

Else if opponent drives forward with pressure:

Else if opponent attempts to clear lapel or free trapped leg:

Else (opponent establishes defensive control):

Expert Insights

John Danaher: “The worm guard represents an evolution in guard technology that exploits the gi in ways that traditional systems do not. Keenan Cornelius’s innovation here is creating a control system where the opponent’s own equipment becomes their constraint. The mechanical principle is elegant: by threading the lapel through their leg, you create a closed loop system where their movement options are severely restricted. The key is understanding that worm guard is not about strength or athleticism—it’s about precise technical execution of a control system. Treat it as a systematic approach to guard retention and attacking.”

Gordon Ryan: “I don’t personally use worm guard because I compete no-gi primarily, but I’ve trained with Keenan and I respect the system deeply. When executed correctly, it’s incredibly frustrating to pass even when you know what’s coming. The guard works because it forces the passer into very specific responses, which you can anticipate and counter. If I were competing gi more, I would invest time in worm guard because it gives such a huge advantage against opponents who haven’t specifically trained the counters. It’s a high-investment, high-return guard system.”

Eddie Bravo: “Worm guard is fascinating because it’s such a recent innovation that shows BJJ is still evolving rapidly. Keenan took the lapel concept and created an entirely new guard system that didn’t exist before. That’s the spirit of innovation I love. While I focus more on no-gi systems, the principles of worm guard—using your opponent’s equipment against them, creating unusual control mechanics—these are universal. In 10th Planet, we think about similar concepts with lockdown and rubber guard, where we’re creating control systems that feel foreign and uncomfortable to the opponent.”

Common Errors

Error: Losing lapel tension during setup or maintenance

  • Consequence: Entire worm guard structure collapses if lapel loses tension, allowing opponent to extract leg and escape control system. Without tight lapel connection, position becomes ineffective standard open guard.
  • Correction: Maintain constant pulling pressure on lapel throughout position. Monitor lapel wrap around shin/foot to ensure it stays tight. If tension loosens, immediately adjust or transition to different position.
  • Recognition: If opponent can move their trapped leg freely or back away despite your attempts to control, lapel tension is insufficient. Should feel locked connection throughout.

Error: Poor initial lapel feed through opponent’s leg

  • Consequence: Incorrect lapel weave angle or depth makes control weak and easy to clear. Improper feed can also create false sense of security that collapses under pressure.
  • Correction: Practice deliberate lapel feeding—pull ample lapel material, feed deep under their leg (not shallow), wrap tightly around your shin/foot with proper tension. Seek coaching on exact mechanics of lapel weave.
  • Recognition: If opponent easily clears “worm guard” with minimal effort, your initial setup was likely flawed. Proper worm guard should be difficult to clear even for experienced opponents.

Error: Neglecting opposite-side sleeve or posture control

  • Consequence: Without breaking opponent’s posture through opposite-side control, they can maintain strong base despite worm control, reducing sweep effectiveness and allowing defensive passing strategies.
  • Correction: Always control opposite sleeve and actively break their posture forward and to the side. Use sleeve grip to prevent them from establishing strong posting hand. Combine lapel control with aggressive posture breaking.
  • Recognition: If opponent maintains upright, comfortable posture despite worm control, you lack proper opposite-side disruption. They should feel off-balanced and broken down.

Error: Static hip position without angle creation

  • Consequence: Even with proper worm control, static hips allow opponent to stabilize and work systematic counters. Reduces sweep effectiveness and makes position predictable.
  • Correction: Constantly adjust hip angles—move laterally, create angles toward trapped leg side, use hip movement to generate off-balancing forces. Worm control stabilizes, but hips create attacks.
  • Recognition: If you feel stuck in worm position without generating sweep pressure, your hips are too static. Should feel dynamic movement creating constant threats.

Error: Over-reliance on worm guard without backup systems

  • Consequence: Opponents who train worm guard counters regularly can shut down the position, and if it’s your only guard, they’ll pass. Over-specialization creates exploitable weakness.
  • Correction: Develop worm guard as part of broader guard system including spider, DLR, and standard lapel guards. Have clear transitions when worm is countered. Use worm strategically rather than exclusively.
  • Recognition: If experienced opponents consistently pass your guard because they know worm counters, you’re over-reliant. Should have multiple guard options.

Error: Attempting worm guard without sufficient technical understanding

  • Consequence: Worm guard is technically complex; attempting it with poor understanding leads to ineffective control and easy passes. Half-learned worm guard is worse than standard guards.
  • Correction: Study instructional material from Keenan Cornelius, attend seminars if possible, drill extensively with experienced training partner who knows the position. Invest proper time in learning before using in competition.
  • Recognition: If you’re frequently losing worm guard to basic counters or can’t maintain position, your technical understanding is insufficient. Need systematic study.

Error: Poor management of free leg distance

  • Consequence: Free leg too close allows smash passing; too far reduces your ability to finish sweeps or create pressure. Poor distance management defeats purpose of worm control.
  • Correction: Use free leg actively—foot on hip, knee, or bicep to manage ideal distance. Adjust based on opponent’s pressure and passing attempts. Free leg is as important as wrapped leg.
  • Recognition: If opponent easily collapses onto you or you can’t reach them to finish sweeps, your free leg management is wrong. Should maintain optimal distance throughout.

Training Drills

Drill 1: Worm Guard Entry Sequences

Start from standard open guard, practice extracting lapel, feeding it through opponent’s leg, and wrapping around your shin with partner at 25% resistance. Focus on smooth, efficient entry that maintains control throughout. Partner provides feedback on lapel depth and tension. Progress to 50%, 75% resistance as entry improves. Emphasize simultaneous establishment of opposite sleeve control and proper hip positioning. 5 minute rounds, 3-4 rounds, with rest between to review technique details. Goal is confident, automatic worm establishment from various open guard positions.

Drill 2: Worm Guard Sweep Mechanics

With worm guard established (start from established position), practice specific sweep mechanics against progressive resistance (start 25%). Partner maintains defensive base while you work off-balancing and sweep execution. Focus on hip angle creation, lapel tension maintenance through sweep, and coordinated use of both legs. Partner increases to 50%, 75%, 90% as your sweeps become more effective. 3 minutes per resistance level, 4-5 rounds total, with coaching feedback on mechanical execution. Build power and precision in sweep finish.

Drill 3: Worm to Back Take Transitions

Practice flowing from worm guard directly to back control through various paths (inverted back take, technical stand-up back take, squid transition back take). Start with compliant partner (0% resistance) to learn movement patterns, progress to 50%, then 75% resistance. Focus on maintaining connection through transition, reading opponent’s defensive reactions, and timing your back take entries. 2 minute rounds, 6-8 rounds covering different back take variations, with video review to identify improvement areas. Goal is high-percentage back take from worm position.

Drill 4: Worm Guard Defense and Transitions

Partner attempts specific worm guard counters (lapel clear, back step, cartwheel, pressure pass) while you practice recognizing counter early and transitioning to squid guard, lapel guard variations, or DLR system (50% resistance initially). Goal is fluid adaptation when worm is being successfully countered. Partner increases to 75% intensity as your transitions improve. Focus on reading defensive cues, making early decisions, and maintaining offensive position despite position changes. 3 minute rounds, 4-5 rounds, with partner mixing counter types. Should develop sensitivity to when to fight for worm versus when to transition.

Drill 5: Worm Guard Position Sparring

Start every round with worm guard established, then free spar with goal of sweeping, submitting, or taking back (you) or passing guard (partner). Partner begins at 50% resistance, progressing to 75%, then 100% live rolling over multiple sessions. Reset to worm guard after each successful action. Focus on all learned principles: lapel tension, posture breaking, hip movement, sweep mechanics, back take timing, and transition decisions. 5 minute rounds, 5-6 rounds per session, with coaching feedback between rounds. Build live application against increasing resistance levels.

Optimal Submission Paths

Fastest path to back (worm specialty): Worm Guard Bottom → Worm to Back Take → Back Control → Rear Naked Choke → Won by Submission Reasoning: Worm guard excels at creating back take opportunities. Direct back take from worm to RNC is one of the highest-percentage paths. Worm control facilitates back access.

High-percentage sweep to finish path: Worm Guard Bottom → Worm Guard Sweep → Mount → Mount Submissions → Won by Submission Reasoning: Worm sweep is highly effective against opponents unfamiliar with the position. Sweeping to mount provides multiple submission options from dominant position.

Advanced progression path (squid advancement): Worm Guard Bottom → Squid Guard Entry → Squid Guard Sweep → Back Control → Rear Naked Choke → Won by Submission Reasoning: Progress from worm to more advanced squid position for enhanced control, then use squid mechanics to access back and finish. Shows systematic advancement.

Triangle attack path (submission from bottom): Worm Guard Bottom → Triangle from Worm → Triangle Control → Triangle Finish or Armbar from Triangle → Won by Submission Reasoning: When opponent drives forward, worm control facilitates triangle entry. Can finish triangle or transition to armbar maintaining control throughout.

Technical stand-up path (dynamic approach): Worm Guard Bottom → Technical Stand-Up from Worm → Standing Position → Takedown → Dominant Position → Submission → Won by Submission Reasoning: Use worm control to stand while maintaining connection, then use standing advantage to take opponent down and establish dominant position for submission.

Position Metrics

  • Position Retention Rate: Beginner 50%, Intermediate 70%, Advanced 85%
  • Advancement Probability: Beginner 25%, Intermediate 45%, Advanced 65%
  • Submission Probability: Beginner 15%, Intermediate 30%, Advanced 45%
  • Position Loss Probability: Beginner 45%, Intermediate 25%, Advanced 12%
  • Average Time in Position: 1.5-3 minutes (can be maintained longer than most guards)

Graph View

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