Versions of Sambo

Although it was originally a single system, there are now three generally recognised versions of Sambo:

• Sport Sambo, which is similar to Judo, Jiu jitsu, or Wrestling. The competition is similar to Judo, but with some differences in rules, protocol, and uniform. For example, in contrast with Judo, Sambo allows ankle locks, knee locks, and leg locks, while not allowing chokes.
• Self-defence Sambo, which is similar to Aikijutsu or Aikido because it is entirely defensive against attacks by armed and unarmed attackers.
• Combat Sambo (Russian: boevoe Sambo). Utilised and developed for the military, this is arguably the root of Sambo as it is now known.
• Combat Sambo Spetsnaz (also known as Systema) is a combat system used by some Russian Special Forces units. It is distinct from Sambo, and except in name (intentionally misleading), Systema bears little resemblance to Sambo.

Sambo is a martial art that combines strikes and grappling, with a slight emphasis on the latter. Combat Sambo is more concerned with disabling an opponent quickly, without worrying about finesse or permanent harm. Combat Sambo also includes weapons practice and disarming techniques.