Top Countries for Ground Fighting Traditions

Determining the "best" ground fighters is subjective, but these nations have produced elite grapplers and influential martial arts:

1. Brazil – Birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), emphasizing joint locks, chokes, and ground control.
2. Russia – Home of Sambo, blending wrestling, judo, and combat styles; renowned for throws and submissions.
3. Japan – Origin of Judo, focused on throws, takedowns, chokes, and joint locks; major influence in MMA.
4. United States – Diverse combat sports landscape: folkstyle/freestyle wrestling, MMA, submission grappling; many elite ground fighters.
5. Iran – Deep tradition in freestyle wrestling; consistent Olympic and world champions.

These countries stand out for their grappling heritage and development of ground-combat systems.