Let me tell you about when I figured out what works in a street fight. It was not beautiful, but it was eye-opening. Consider this: a late-night pizza drive evolved into a crash lesson in practical self-defense!
So it’s Friday night, and I’m standing outside this small pizza place with my friend, James. Now James and I were training partners—me in BJJ and him in boxing. We’d always made jokes about who would prevail in a real fight, but we never thought of actually testing it.
Cue the “attacker.” This individual abruptly emerges, seemingly seeking confrontation—possibly slightly inebriated and undeniably enraged. He gets in James’ face and yells something about how we “looked at him wrong.” Classic nonsense.
At first, we attempted to calm him down—situational awareness, right? De-escalate whenever possible. But he wouldn’t have it. The man squared up, his hands clenched as if he was an experienced puncher.
Round 1: James, the boxer!
James walked in first, doing his boxing thing. James displayed flawless footwork, maintaining a safe distance from the opponent. The guy swung violently, and James slipped a few punches as if he were in the ring. Then, bam—a quick jab, followed by a solid cross to the man’s jaw.
It was impressive. But here’s the deal. The attacker remained standing. He staggered, yes, but now he was much enraged.
The guy surged and grabbed James, resulting in a rough grapple. Boxing? Not much assistance when someone is clutching you and throwing blows. James tried to push him away, but it was evident he did not want round two.
Round Two: My Turn (BJJ to the Rescue)
By now, the guy had turned his attention to me. Great. It’s time to evaluate if those hours of rolling were worthwhile.
As soon as he charged at me, I dodged under his wild hook and attempted a double-leg takedown. We struck the pavement, with me on top and in side control.
Now for the magic of BJJ: ground control!
The man was trembling, but he was unable to do much due to my pinning him. I moved to mount, keeping my weight heavy, and waited for him to tire out.
When he started to slow down, I locked in a simple armbar. I didn’t overdo it—just enough pressure to make him understand he was done.
What Did I Learn?
After that, James and I waited on the curb, waiting for the cops (someone inside had phoned them). I was relieved that my GI was not involved in the mess, as he was nursing a battered cheek.
We joked about it afterward, but it made me think. Boxing and BJJ both had their advantages:
- Boxing: James’ striking was good. His ability to hold the man at bay likely prevented him from suffering any significant strikes.
- BJJ: Once everything hit the ground, the game was finished. Control, surrender, and maintaining composure were crucial factors.
The Verdict: BJJ vs. Boxing, which is more effective in street fights?
In a street battle, there is no “perfect” martial art. Boxing has incredible power and distance control, but when the fight turns sloppy (as it nearly always does), BJJ’s ground domination emerges.
What is the best bet? Train both. Knowing how to punch and what to do on the ground makes you much more difficult to control.
But, honestly, what is the most significant lesson? Situational awareness. If you can avoid the conflict completely, do so. No pizza slice is worth a visit to the emergency room—or worse.
So, that is my tale. How about you? Have you had a wild martial arts experience? I would love to hear it. 👊
