09/26/2026
Tennessee Cup Jiu-Jitsu Super Fights
Competition Rules
1. Match Format
All athletes registered for the Tennessee Cup Jiu-Jitsu Super Fights are entitled to compete in two matches:
* 1 Gi match
* 1 No-Gi match
All participating athletes will receive medals, regardless of the outcome of their matches.
All children’s matches will be 3 minutes long, regardless of age or experience level. Adult matches will be 5 minutes long.
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2. Children 9 Years Old and Under
For all children 9 years old and under, the matches are designed to provide experience, confidence, and a positive introduction to competition.
For these divisions:
* No submissions are allowed.
* No points will be scored.
* There will be no official winner or loser.
* The children will compete normally within the event’s safety guidelines.
* At the end of the match, the referee will raise both athletes’ hands.
* Both athletes will receive medals.
* All matches will be 3 minutes long.
The main purpose of these matches is to encourage young athletes to enjoy competition, gain experience, and continue developing in Jiu-Jitsu.
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3. Children Ages 10 to 14 With 6 Months or Less of Jiu-Jitsu Experience
Children between 10 and 14 years old who have 6 months or less of Jiu-Jitsu experience will compete under a points system, but submissions will not be allowed.
For these divisions:
* Points will be scored normally.
* No submissions are allowed.
* A winner will be determined based on points at the end of the match.
* Takedowns, sweeps, guard passes, positional control, and other scoring positions may earn points under the applicable rules.
* All matches will be 3 minutes long.
The purpose of this rule is to allow beginner athletes to experience real competition while maintaining an additional level of safety.
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4. Children Ages 10 to 14 With More Than 6 Months of Experience
Children between 10 and 14 years old who have more than 6 months of Jiu-Jitsu experience will compete under IBJJF rules, according to their:
* Age
* Belt level
* Legal techniques for their division
* Scoring system
* Penalties
* Permitted submissions
* Match time
All matches will be 3 minutes long.
Only techniques allowed by the IBJJF for the athlete’s age and belt level will be permitted.
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5. Adults
Adult matches will follow IBJJF competition rules according to the athlete’s belt level and division.
Adult matches will be 5 minutes long.
This includes rules regarding:
* Points
* Advantages, when applicable
* Penalties
* Submissions
* Illegal techniques
* Out-of-bounds situations
* Athlete conduct
* Referee decisions
Athletes may only use techniques permitted for their belt level under IBJJF rules.
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6. Safety
Athlete safety is the highest priority of the event.
The referee may stop a match immediately if:
* An athlete is at risk of injury.
* A position or technique is being applied dangerously.
* An athlete is unable to properly defend themselves.
* Any situation occurs that may compromise the safety of either competitor.
Referees will be instructed to use extra caution in children’s divisions.
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7. Medals
All athletes participating in the Tennessee Cup Jiu-Jitsu Super Fights will receive medals.
Each athlete is entitled to:
* 1 Gi match
* 1 No-Gi match
The Tennessee Cup medal system is designed to recognize participation, courage, effort, and competitive experience.
For children 9 years old and under, there will be no distinction between winner and loser.
At the end of the match, both athletes will have their hands raised and both will receive medals.
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8. General Rules
Except for the special rules described above for children and beginner athletes, the Tennessee Cup Jiu-Jitsu Super Fights will follow official IBJJF rules.
When a Tennessee Cup special rule differs from standard IBJJF rules, the Tennessee Cup rule will take priority.
Event organizers reserve the right to make additional decisions when necessary to protect:
* Athlete safety
* Fair matchmaking
* Event organization
* Sportsmanship
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Division Summary
9 Years Old and Under
No submissions.
No points.
No winner or loser.
Both athletes’ hands will be raised.
Both athletes receive medals.
Match time: 3 minutes.
Ages 10–14 — 6 Months or Less of Jiu-Jitsu Experience
Points are scored.
No submissions.
A winner is determined by points.
Match time: 3 minutes.
Ages 10–14 — More Than 6 Months of Experience
IBJJF rules according to age and belt.
Points and legal submissions apply according to the division.
Match time: 3 minutes.
Adults
IBJJF rules according to belt and division.
Match time: 5 minutes.
All Athletes
Each athlete is entitled to one Gi match and one No-Gi match.
All participating athletes receive medals.
