And I wasn't saying that he wasn't effective without them. However, if you've studied Jiu Jitsu and understand the techniques involved then you can understand just how much of a difference a bit of extra friction can make, especially applying the type of offensive game he brings to the table. All I was saying is that if you make everything equal (Same restrictions/rules/relative competition) the most technical BJJ practicioner is Demian Maia.
Aoki has not proven himself to be in this competition. Sure he has eye-catching submissions but against a far lesser standard of competition than the likes of Maia, Shields or even Souza. I'd probably go for Maia or Shields, although with Shields its more how smooth and crisp his transitions are than him being a lethal submission threat to top guys. To be honest though the grappler I'm most impressed by is Anderson Silva, just because his submission game makes the best use of the breadth of MMA by fully integrating ground strikes.
He really had no reason, there was a BJJ expert in front of him that was eating kicks and Aoki was winning the fight. Shaolin was not taking it to the ground either much I think it should be noted, and Aoki was threatening more when they were
Those fellas are great at sport jiu jitsu but I like Toquino for MMA - his power and explosiveness and leglocks are x-rated
Jacare couldnt take any wrestlers down in the octogon...he'd better stay in lil rings and cages. Yes he could theoretically whup Toquino but Toquino will have success against a wider range of fighters
Roger is the clear best but he isn't a choice so I'd have to go for Jacare. Next would be Maia and then Aoki.