In BJJ, matches start with both opponents standing, facing each other in almost all rulesets.
From here, the players can employ a number of techniques to gain a dominant positions or enter into a guard.
The options for the players are generally:
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Hand fight for dominant grips to enter a takedown/submission system.
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Submit the opponent while standing.
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Put the opponent on the mat with a takedown technique.
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Play defensively, focusing on not allowing the opponent to secure dominant grips or positioning. Defensive players may also focus on performing opportunistic counterattacking techniques rather than taking the offensive iniative.