ADCC is the best-known no-gi submission grappling organization, and its Swiss events, such as the ADCC Suisse National and Open Championships, give athletes a pathway into the international ADCC circuit. ADCC rules are noticeably different from gi-based rulesets, so it pays to know them before you compete.
The official ADCC rules page is the final word, and rules differ between the World Championship and local events. Always read the rules for your specific event.
What Makes ADCC Different
- No gi, no advantages for near-misses. The format rewards submissions and clear control.
- Two halves. In the World Championship format, the first half of the match is played with limited or no scoring for positions, which encourages attempts to submit or take down. Positive points count in the second half.
- Positions must be held. A dominant position generally has to be held for about three seconds without being in submission danger before points are awarded.
- Negative points. Actions such as pulling guard can cost points, which discourages stalling.
Match Lengths
| Event type | Typical format |
|---|---|
| World Championship, qualifying matches | 10 minutes, with 5 minutes of overtime if drawn |
| World Championship, finals and superfights | 20 minutes, with up to two 10-minute overtimes |
| Open and national events | Shorter, commonly around 6 minutes for early rounds and 8 minutes for finals, with overtime |
Open and national events set their own times, so check your event page.
Tied Matches
If a match is still level, it goes to overtime. If the score remains level after overtime, referees decide, typically based on dominance and attempts.
Prepare for an ADCC Event
- Read the official ADCC rules and regulations.
- Check the uniform rules for no-gi in our uniform guide.
- Find events in our Swiss competition calendar.
- Train the format. Practice starting from standing, scoring in the second half and finishing under time pressure.
Want to build your no-gi game with a team behind you? Try a free 7-day trial at HOGA and join our No-Gi grappling classes in Zurich.
