Butterfly Sweep
Also known as: Hook Sweep, Elevator Sweep
The butterfly sweep uses your hook (foot inside their thigh) to elevate and turn your opponent over while your upper body grip prevents them from posting. It's one of the most versatile sweeps in BJJ—working against standing, kneeling, and larger opponents. The key is understanding that you don't lift them with strength; you fall to the side while your hook redirects their weight.
🎯Key Details
Hook elevation
Your hook doesn't lift—it redirects. Fall to the side and let your hook guide their weight where their base isn't.
Upper body grip
Underhook on the sweeping side controls their shoulder. Without it, they post and stop the sweep.
Head position
Your head should go toward their armpit on the sweeping side—head leads the body.
Falling, not lifting
Fall to your side while your hook elevates. Don't try to lift them straight up.
Come up immediately
Follow your momentum and come up to top position. Don't pause after the elevation.
⚠️Common Mistakes
Trying to muscle them over
Use timing and angle, not strength. Fall to the side as you hook elevate.
No underhook
You need upper body control. Underhook prevents their post.
Wrong angle
Angle your body 45 degrees. Straight-on sweeps are easily stuffed.
Not following through
Commit to the sweep and come to top immediately. Hesitation = scramble.
🚀Setups
- •Against kneeling opponent
- •When they try to pass standing
- •After controlling posture
- •As they lean forward
🛡️Counters / Defenses
- •Sprawl and drive hips down
- •Post on the mat
- •Disengage and backstep
- •Cross-face and flatten
🔄Variations
📍Applicable Positions
🔗Related Techniques
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