Ultimate fighter Jimmy Quinlan after a match.

Jimmy “Crash” Quinlan, pro MMA fighter featured on the show Ultimate Fighter certainly has a name for himself in the realm of UFC, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA. With 3 wins under his belt, a 6ft frame and a hearty 185lbs, the middleweight fighter certainly is a force to be reckoned with in the ring.

Quinlan has come by Black Diamond Academy in Wakefield, RI on another occasion to give a seminar relating to take downs, chokes and generally good strategy that any fighter should be bearing in mind during a hard fight. This time, “Crash” came by Black Diamond MMA again to give a very insightful look at the first stages of a fight and what good tactic looks like.

‘Feeling’ Your Distance

In this seminar, Quinlan began by explaining the concept of what to do at the very beginning of a fight. From the standing position, Quinlan and his opponent, Ultimate Fighting veteran, Chuck O’Neal break down the concept of circling and ‘feeling’ out your distance. From this starting position, Quinlan recommends using a dominant hand (in this case his right) and pumping it forward in a series of check’s to the opponent’s shoulder. This motion, very similar to a jab in boxing Quinlan points out, is meant to measure the distance between yourself and your opponent and can also be used as a mechanism to close space and off-set your opponent.

Key Points to Remember

Once you’ve closed your space, Quinlan explains, one option for getting your opponent to the ground is an ‘explosive’ end. By this, Quinlan shows that you begin by reaching high on your opponent’s shoulder and stepping in deep behind your opponent. With your body in place, trip your opponent down and sit down on his leg. The motion should be done in one quick, strong motion.

Check out the clip of Jimmy Quinlan giving his talk at Black Diamond and check out Quinlan’s website!