BJJ Competition Rules and Scoring in New Zealand

BJJ competition rules in New Zealand can feel complicated until you know what the referee is looking for. Most NZ Grappler point-scoring events follow the SJJIF rulebook, while special formats—such as ADCC submission-only events—may use different rules. This guide gives competitors, parents and coaches a practical starting point.

Quick guide to SJJIF BJJ scoring

At standard NZ Grappler point-scoring events, the scoreboard rewards controlled positional progress. The main scores are:

The SJJIF system does not use advantage points. A near-score is not added to the scoreboard, so athletes should focus on completing and controlling each position.

When are points actually awarded?

Reaching a position is only part of the job. The referee must see the required control before awarding points. Moving quickly through a position without establishing control may produce no score.

• Control matters: finish the movement and stabilise the recognised position.
• You cannot farm the same score: intentionally leaving and re-entering the same position does not keep producing points.
• A submission threat changes the scoring moment: points are not awarded while a competitor is caught in a submission. They can be awarded after the submission is fully defended and the scoring position is retained.
• Referee signals are final on the mat: keep competing until the referee stops the match.

How does a BJJ match end?

A match can end by submission, points, disqualification or another result defined in the official rules. If an athlete taps physically or verbally, the referee stops the contest to protect the competitor.

Under the standard SJJIF rules, a points tie goes to sudden-death overtime rather than an advantage-point count or referee decision. The official rulebook explains the full overtime procedure.

Penalties, safety and illegal techniques

Penalties protect both competitors and keep the match active and fair. They can be given for prohibited conduct, stalling or rules violations. Serious or repeated violations can lead to disqualification.

Legal submissions vary according to age, belt and competition division. That is especially important for children and lower belts. Do not rely on what is allowed during normal academy training: review your division’s rules with your coach and use the event’s Smoothcomp information as the final check.

Gi, No-Gi, uniform and hygiene checks

The core scoring positions are familiar across Gi and No-Gi, but uniform requirements and permitted techniques can differ. Arrive with competition-ready gear and leave enough time for inspection.

• Your uniform should be clean, dry and in good condition.
• Fingernails and toenails should be short and clean.
• Long hair should be secured safely.
• Avoid makeup or hair products that could transfer to another competitor.
• Do not compete with a communicable skin condition.

Under SJJIF uniform rules, a competitor whose uniform or equipment does not comply may be given five minutes to correct it; failure to do so can result in disqualification. Bringing a spare Gi, rashguard or shorts is a smart precaution.

ADCC submission-only events are different

ADCC events should not be treated as a standard SJJIF points tournament. NZ Grappler’s ADCC format is submission only, so the objectives, legal techniques and way a winner is determined can differ from the scoring table above.

Before entering an ADCC event, open that specific event in Smoothcomp and read its Rules and Information sections from top to bottom. Prepare for that format with your coach rather than assuming the rules from a Gi or No-Gi points event will apply.

Your pre-competition rules checklist

1. Open your exact event on Smoothcomp.
2. Read the Rules and Information tabs.
3. Confirm your age, belt and weight division.
4. Check the match format and permitted submissions.
5. Review the referee signals and scoring with your coach.
6. Pack compliant competition gear and a spare set if possible.
7. Recheck the event page before competition day for updates.

Official rules and helpful NZ Grappler links

• Read the official SJJIF rulebook and regulations
• Find NZ Grappler events and register through Smoothcomp
• View the 2026 BJJ competition calendar
• Read Your First BJJ Tournament in New Zealand
• Visit Grappler Central for competition resources

This article is an educational summary. The official rulebook and the rules published for each individual event take precedence.