I agree -
Stand-up techniques have their place, but 80% of all street-fighting encounters end up on the ground, according to FBI stats.
I started training in Tae-kwon-do in high school, and moved on to Jeet-kune-do in my later years. Both styles emphasize stand-up techniques such as punching, kicking, elbows, knees, etc...
I thought my fighting skills were sufficient enough to defend myself in almost any situation, until I sparred "freestyle" with a Brazillian Jiu-jitsu student. I threw one kick, and soon found myself on the ground with him on my back, cranking my neck.
I soon enrolled in the local Gracie Jiu-jitsu training chapter. Within 3 or 4 months, I was competent enough on the ground to "tap-out" other less-experienced students who outweighed me by 50-60 lbs. After about a year in training, I could hold my own against a black-belt in Judo, a 4th-degree black belt in TKD, and a state high school wrestling champ. The 4D TKD BB is a good friend of mine who has taught for over 20 years. I "tapped him out" in 2 minutes.
Brazillian Jiu-jitsu isn't the most entertaining spectator sport for the uninitiated. To a casual observer, it looks like two guys rolling around on the ground. Watching flying kicks and punches is more fun to watch, but when it comes to practical, effective self-defense, BJJ wins hands-down, IMHO.
My best advice is:
1. Study BOTH stand-up AND ground-fighting arts.
2. Finish the fight on your feet if you can, but chances are you're going to the ground.
Even a stronger, bigger experienced street fighter will eventually extend an arm, leg or neck in a fight. That is your opportunity. Lock the joint or choke him. Just don't wait for him to tap out. BREAK the joint or KNOCK HIM OUT with the choke.
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