Grappling in UFC 4 can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging mechanics to master. Unlike striking, which is more straightforward and reaction-based, grappling involves controlling your opponent through positioning, timing, and decision-making. Whether you’re looking to ground and pound, set up submissions, or simply dominate the clinch, understanding how to grapple effectively can make all the difference in your performance. This in-depth guide breaks down how to grapple in UFC 4, step-by-step, covering takedowns, clinches, ground control, and submissions to help you gain the upper hand in every fight.
Understanding Grappling Basics
The Grappling Control System
UFC 4 introduces a more accessible grappling system compared to previous games. It features a simplified control scheme called Grapple Assist, which allows players to choose transitions like Get Up, Ground and Pound, or Submission by moving the right stick in the corresponding direction.
However, for players wanting full control, the legacy system is still available. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with both the simplified and advanced inputs to become proficient at all levels.
- RS (Right Stick): Controls transitions on the ground and in the clinch.
- LS (Left Stick): Moves your fighter and maintains positioning.
- R2/RT + RS: Deny transitions or defend takedowns and submissions.
- R1/RB: Used in advanced grappling options like submission chains or counters.
Clinching: The First Step to Grappling
Initiating the Clinch
To begin grappling, start with the clinch. The clinch is a close-range engagement that allows you to throw strikes, perform takedowns, or move into dominant positions.
- PressL1 (PS4/PS5) or LB (Xbox)+Square/X or Triangle/Yto initiate a clinch.
Once you have your opponent in a clinch, you can move to various positions using the Right Stick. Push the RS left, right, or down to transition to over-under, single-collar, or double-under hooks depending on your strategy.
Using the Clinch Effectively
From the clinch, you can deal damage or transition into takedowns. Short strikes like knees and elbows work well here. Monitor your stamina and look for opportunities when your opponent is vulnerable or attempting to escape.
Executing Takedowns
Basic Takedowns
Takedowns are crucial for initiating ground grappling. You can execute a variety of takedowns depending on your fighter’s stats and position.
- LS forward + Square/X or Triangle/Yto perform a double leg or single leg takedown.
- HoldL1/LBfor a power takedown.
If your opponent blocks your attempt, try faking a takedown by starting the input and canceling to bait out their defense. Timing and unpredictability are key here.
Takedown Defense
To defend against takedowns, pressR2 + Down on RS (PS)orRT + Down on RS (Xbox)as soon as your opponent starts the takedown animation. Practicing your reaction time is crucial, as missing this window could leave you in a bad position.
Ground Game Fundamentals
Ground Transitions
Once on the ground, controlling your position is the key to effective grappling. Use the Right Stick to move between guard, half guard, side control, mount, and back mount.
- RS Up: Advance position (e.g., from half guard to mount).
- RS Right/Left: Move to side control or sprawl position.
- RS Down: Attempt to get back to feet or regain guard.
Be mindful of your stamina. Attempting transitions while fatigued increases the chances your opponent will deny your movement and take control.
Ground Striking
Once in a dominant position, use strikes to damage your opponent. PressSquare/X or Triangle/Ywhile in mount or side control to throw punches and elbows. If you’re in top mount, you can unleash a flurry by holding the strike button to initiate a ground and pound sequence.
Submissions and Finishing Fights
Initiating a Submission
To attempt a submission, move to a favorable position such as mount, back mount, or side control, and pressR1/RB + Square/X or Triangle/Ydepending on the submission type available.
Submissions include:
- Armbar
- Triangle choke
- Rear-naked choke
- Guillotine choke
Submission Mini-Game
UFC 4 uses a submission mini-game where both players control a bar around a circular track. The attacker tries to overlap the defender’s bar to progress the submission, while the defender tries to escape. For some subs, there may be additional phases where you must complete another round to secure the tap out.
Submission Defense
To defend, simply move your Right Stick away from your opponent’s bar. UseL2/LTto boost your escape and watch for escape prompts if you’re caught in chained submissions. Keeping calm and conserving stamina will help you survive most attempts.
Tips to Improve Your Grappling
Choose Grappling-Oriented Fighters
If you want to focus on grappling in UFC 4, use fighters with high wrestling or jiu-jitsu stats. Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov or Demian Maia excel in these areas and make practicing grappling techniques easier and more effective.
Use Practice Mode
Spend time in practice mode to learn the mechanics without pressure. Try executing different transitions and submissions from multiple positions. Repetition is key to muscle memory.
Mix Up Your Offense
Don’t be predictable. Mix clinches, takedowns, and strikes to keep your opponent guessing. A balanced offense makes it harder for your opponent to react or anticipate your next move.
Monitor Stamina Carefully
Grappling consumes stamina fast, especially if you’re transitioning or attempting submissions. Keep your eye on the stamina bar and don’t waste energy on unnecessary movement.
Advanced Grappling Tactics
Chain Transitions
Quickly move from one transition to another to confuse your opponent. If they deny your first move, immediately switch directions or attempt a submission to keep pressure on them.
Fake Transitions
Use fake transitions by tapping the Right Stick to bait your opponent into trying a denial. Once they commit, follow up with your real move in another direction to break their defense rhythm.
Back Control
Getting to your opponent’s back is one of the most dominant positions in the game. From back mount, you can rain down strikes or attempt a rear-naked choke. Use RS Right/Left to move into back sitting or full back mount.
Mastering how to grapple in UFC 4 takes time, patience, and plenty of practice. From initiating clinches and takedowns to controlling the ground game and finishing with submissions, each phase of grappling offers multiple layers of depth. Whether you prefer using the simplified Grapple Assist or diving into advanced manual controls, learning these techniques will make you a more versatile and dangerous fighter. Keep practicing, stay unpredictable, and you’ll soon dominate opponents with your grappling prowess.