Top 3 Submissions in BJJ Competitions (2020–2025)

Split by Gi vs No-Gi • late-round trends across major events

Choke from the Back

Bow-and-arrow / sliding-lapel / RNC-style finishes dominate from back control.
Armbar

Perennial #2 in Worlds late rounds; thrives off guard/transition scrambles.
Triangle

Less frequent than armbars/back chokes but a consistent podium finisher.

Why GI trends this way: Lapels supercharge back control—setups to bow-and-arrow & lapel chokes are plentiful. Armbars arise from broken posture and transitions; triangles remain a reliable guard threat.

NO-GI

Rear Naked Choke (RNC)

Leads at ADCC and other formats; clean back-take → quick closeout.
Heel Hook

Spiked after 2021 IBJJF no-gi rule changes; high finishing rate in the leg-entanglement meta.
Armbar

Stays in the top 3; shows up from arm-drag/back-exposures and scramble traps.

Why NO-GI trends this way: Less grip friction → more back exposure & leg entries. RNC remains king; heel hooks surged with broader legality; armbars persist via dynamic transitions.

Method: Synthesis of late-round finishes (quarters → finals) in major events 2020–2025 (e.g., IBJJF Worlds/No-Gi Worlds, ADCC). Use this as a trend overview; individual events will vary.