Guide · From Head Coach David
What Is Sambo?
Sambo is a Russian martial art built on throws, takedowns, and leg locks. Its combat version adds striking, and it's the foundation that produced some of the best fighters in MMA, including Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev.
Where Sambo Comes From
Sambo was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 1930s, drawing on judo and the folk wrestling styles of the Soviet republics, and became an official sport in 1938. The name is a Russian acronym, SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya: “self-defense without weapons.” Athletes compete in a red or blue jacket with a belt, shorts, and wrestling shoes.
Sport Sambo vs Combat Sambo vs BJJ
Sport Sambo
- Jacket wrestling: throws, takedowns, and pins
- Ankle and knee locks allowed; no chokes
- A clean throw that lands the opponent on their back, with the thrower still standing, wins outright
Combat Sambo
- Everything in Sport Sambo, plus punches, kicks, and knees
- Chokes allowed
- Fought with gloves, headgear, and shin guards; the closest Sambo gets to MMA
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Built around the ground game and the guard
- Chokes are central; many leg locks are restricted for beginners in competition
- Takedowns matter less, since a player can pull guard
Compared with judo, Sambo allows leg grabs and leg locks. Compared with BJJ, it rewards the takedown and keeps the pace high. That mix of throws, control, and finishing is why it carries over so well to MMA.
Learning Sambo In Redwood City
Head Coach David is a Combat Sambo World Champion and a two-time Russian National Champion who has trained alongside Khabib and Islam. He teaches Combat Sambo every Friday night at our gym in Downtown Redwood City, and beginners are welcome.
Adults from $169/mo · Kids $149/mo · First class free · Month to month