How to Do the Wilson Pass in BJJ
The Wilson pass is a grinding pressure pass that uses your shoulder on their hip to pin one side while you work around the other. By establishing heavy shoulder pressure on the thigh and slowly walking your legs around, you methodically eliminate the guard with pure pressure and weight distribution.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From combat base, drive your lead shoulder into their near thigh
- 2 Pin the thigh to the mat with your shoulder weight
- 3 Control the far leg with your hand to prevent re-guarding
- 4 Walk your legs around slowly while maintaining shoulder pressure
- 5 Settle into side control once fully past the legs
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Shoulder pressure not heavy enough to pin the thigh
- ⚠️ Not controlling the far leg during the walk-around
- ⚠️ Moving too quickly and losing the pressure position
- ⚠️ Head too low exposing you to guillotine
- ⚠️ Not settling weight properly during the transition
🔄 Variations
- → With gi lapel control
- → From headquarters
- → Wilson to knee on belly
- → With leg drag finish
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Frame on the shoulder to prevent pinning
- → Reguard before the walk-around
- → Create angles to prevent the pin
- → Invert under the pressure
Track Your Wilson Pass Progress
Log every time you practice the Wilson Pass and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Wilson Pass? ▼
The Wilson Pass is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Wilson Pass works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Wilson Pass? ▼
The Wilson Pass is typically executed from open guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.