Cauliflower ear is the permanently thickened, lumpy outer ear seen on many long-time grapplers, the result of an ear that swelled from rubbing or pressure. It is common in both judo and BJJ.
- In BJJ and judo: common in both, from groundwork pressure and head control.
- Some grapplers treat it as a badge; nobody's hearing or helmet fit is better for it.
What is cauliflower ear?
In grappling the pressure comes from guard passing with the head low, from being held in side control with an arm over the ear, from cross-faces and from collar grips that drag across the head. It happens to judoka and BJJ players alike.
How is cauliflower ear different in judo and BJJ?
The pressure that causes it is the same in both sports, so the difference is how much groundwork you do. Judoka who spend most of their time standing see less of it; BJJ players who drill guard passing for hours see more.
If you know someone who wears theirs with pride, our bjj gifts cover the rest of the lifestyle.
Can you wear ear guards in competition?
Not at IBJJF events: the IBJJF Rules Book forbids headgear and any hard protector. The IJF forbids head coverings in judo contests. Ear guards are for training.
Sources
- IBJJF Rules Book, IBJJF
Related terms
Ear guards, Side control, Guard passing, Mat burn, Shrimp / hip escape.