How does a ju-jitsu fighting match work?
B · Beginner · The match · 1 of 6Ju-jitsu fighting is a three-minute match in three parts: strikes at a distance, then throws once a grip is taken, then holds and submissions on the ground. Points are scored in each part. A fighter who scores an ippon in all three parts wins at once by full ippon. Otherwise the higher score at time wins.
How it works
- Part 1: punches, strikes and kicks, together called atemi.
- Part 2: throws and takedowns, and locks and strangles, once a grip is taken.
- Part 3: pins and submission holds on the ground.
- Scores: a waza-ari is one point. An ippon is two or three.
- Full ippon: an ippon in each of the three parts ends the match.
- Otherwise: the higher score when time runs out wins.
- Light contact: strikes must touch no harder than lightly.
- Penalties: each one also gives points to the opponent.
The glossary has ju-jitsu fighting, the part 1, the part 2, the part 3, the ippon and the full ippon.
Tricky cases
Can a fighter win by being much better at throws alone?
Yes, on points. A fighter who never scores in the other parts cannot win by full ippon, and at level points loses to an opponent with ippons in more parts.
Is ju-jitsu fighting full contact?
No. A strike must touch the opponent but no harder than light contact. A hard strike is a major foul.
Is this the same sport as Brazilian jiu-jitsu?
No. The federation runs a separate ground-fighting discipline, which it calls jiu-jitsu or ne-waza, with no strikes and a different scoring system. This set covers the fighting system only.
Is an ippon always worth the same?
No. An ippon is two points for most techniques and three for a kick to the head or a submission.
Why the rule exists
Ju-jitsu as a martial art joins striking, throwing and grappling, and the fighting system was built to test all three in one match. Dividing the match into parts, and rewarding the fighter who scores in every one, stops a specialist from winning on a single skill.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Fighting system | Three parts; strikes, throws and groundwork | JJIF Fighting, Generalities |
| Ne-waza | Grappling only; no strikes | JJIF Ne-Waza rulebook |
| Duo | A judged demonstration, not a fight | JJIF Duo rulebook |
| Under 16 and younger | Extra safety rules, printed in italics in the rulebook | JJIF Fighting, page 2 |
From the rule book
Ju-Jitsu International Federation, Ju-Jitsu Fighting Rulebook (version 4.0, approved October 2022), the Generalities and Sections 4, 6 and 8. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the federation's Ju-Jitsu Fighting Rulebook.