### Knee Cut Pass: A Comprehensive Breakdown The Knee Cut Pass is a fundamental guard passing technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, prized for its simplicity, efficacy, and adaptability. It is often used to transition from the **Open Guard or Half Guard** into a more dominant position, such as **Side Control**. #### Position - **Open Guard** or **Half Guard** #### Japanese Name - N/A #### Top/Bottom - **Top** #### Step-by-Step Instructions 1. **Setup:** - Start in your opponent's Open Guard or Half Guard. - Establish a strong base with your knees bent and maintain a low posture to prevent easy sweeps or submissions. 2. **Grips Establishment:** - Use your right hand to control your opponent's **collar**. Alternatively, grip the **lapel** with your left hand to control their upper body. - With your left hand, grip your opponent's **far knee** to control their hip movement and prevent them from re-guarding or escaping. 3. **Knee Positioning:** - Position your right knee in front of their inner thigh, aiming to cut perpendicularly across their body. - Your shin should press against their inner thigh, splitting their legs apart while keeping your weight balanced. 4. **Body Placement and Pressure:** - Lean your upper body forward and to the side, directing your weight towards your opponent's chest. - Drop your free knee (left knee) to the mat for base support and prepare to drive forward. - Keep your posture strong by using your grips, avoiding excessive bending or slouching to maintain balance. 5. **Leg and Hip Movement:** - As you apply pressure with your knee, simultaneously step your trail leg (left leg) backwards in an arc motion, which will guide your right knee to follow through the pass. - Use the grip on their knee to push their hips away, exaggerating the opening. 6. **Sliding Through:** - Slide your right knee completely through your opponent’s legs, fully sprawling out if necessary, while keeping tight control with your arms. 7. **Transition to Side Control:** - As your knee clears past their thighs, aim to establish your preferred side control position. - Use your free hand (left hand) to differentiate your position by going under their head or achieving an underhook to secure tight control. - Keep your chest low and apply controlled pressure to stabilize and control your opponent. #### Tips for Success - Ensure constant pressure on your opponent to limit their movement. - Be alert to counters or transitions from your opponent, possibly looking for frames or attempts to re-guard. - Practice maintaining good posture and balance throughout the technique. In conclusion, the Knee Cut Pass is a versatile tool in any BJJ practitioner's arsenal. Mastery of its nuances can lead to successful transitions and dominance in various grappling scenarios.