# What is the difference between sport BJJ and self-defense BJJ?

Sport BJJ optimizes for competition rules - pulling guard, playing positions that would be dangerous in a fight, ignoring strikes. Self-defense BJJ assumes punches are coming, avoids being on bottom on concrete, and prioritizes positions where you can disengage safely. Both share the same techniques...

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**Tags:** self-defense, competition

**Source:** [BJJ Notes Knowledge Base](https://www.bjjnotes.app/knowledge-base/what-is-the-difference-between-sport-bjj-and-self-defense-bjj)