Takedowns and takedown defense (tachiwaza) are considered standup skills in both wrestling and judo, as opposed to ground grappling (newaza).
Most MMA fights today are essentially shootboxing matches, and the only fighters who are able to consistently impose prolonged ground grappling exchanges at the elite level are extremely well conditioned wrestlers like Khabib, Kamaru, and Colby.
Even in self defense situations, we all know now that boxing, wrestling and judo make a lot more sense than rolling around on the ground, especially when you don't know how many assailants might jump you.
BJJ is actually the lowest priority, with stand up striking, takedowns and throws all being more essential to modern MMA and self defense. But, it's the most expensive to learn.
I think this marketing narrative needs to be questioned. Quality professional level boxing, wrestling and judo gyms should be more lucrative and accessible. Instead, most accessible fight gyms offer a generic BJJ + Muay Thai curriculum, with boxing and wrestling relegated to secondary status (if taught at all).
Most MMA fights today are essentially shootboxing matches, and the only fighters who are able to consistently impose prolonged ground grappling exchanges at the elite level are extremely well conditioned wrestlers like Khabib, Kamaru, and Colby.
Even in self defense situations, we all know now that boxing, wrestling and judo make a lot more sense than rolling around on the ground, especially when you don't know how many assailants might jump you.
BJJ is actually the lowest priority, with stand up striking, takedowns and throws all being more essential to modern MMA and self defense. But, it's the most expensive to learn.
I think this marketing narrative needs to be questioned. Quality professional level boxing, wrestling and judo gyms should be more lucrative and accessible. Instead, most accessible fight gyms offer a generic BJJ + Muay Thai curriculum, with boxing and wrestling relegated to secondary status (if taught at all).