A seated-guard lapel plan with clean knee-slice counters and back takes.
The Bottom Line
You will learn to attach lapels to your sit-up guard. You will counter knee slices and backstep passes into sweeps or back takes. You will not study worm or squid depth.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Sit-up guard users
Skip if: You play flat guard
Tech focus: De La Riva Entries, Knee Slice Counters, Back Takes
Biggest takeaway: Sit up and attach lapels
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What You'll Learn
Three-part course on building lapel threats from a seated guard base. Uses DLR, knee slice counters, deep half options, and back takes that transition directly from lapel grips.
Strong choice for sit-up guard players.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Seated Guard
- De La Riva Entries
- Knee Slice Counters
- Deep Half Sweeps
- Back Takes
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 1 hour and 22 minutes
- Volumes: 3
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I like this for athletes who already win collar-sleeve hand fights from seated and want lapel upgrades without changing base game.
Why Alessandro Botelo?
Alessandro “Cavalo” Botelo is a black belt known for practical seated guard tactics and lapel integrations for gi competition.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Direct lapel integration for sit-up guard styles.
- Useful knee-slice counters into immediate score.
- Clear three-volume structure for class planning.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Less focus on worm/squid patterns.
- Deep half detours may not suit every athlete.
- Requires active grip fighting to prevent stalling.
Smart Alternatives
- The Lapel Guard Blue Print – More closed-guard lapel foundations if you rarely sit up. (Price: $79.00)
- Modern Lapel Guards Made Easy – Broader lapel coverage if you want variety. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Official listing: View Seated Lapel Guard System on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.