First-principles back control and finishing that built today’s meta.
The Bottom Line
You learn the logic behind every grip and hook. You also learn escapes prevention and re-attachment sequences. You will not see many live-roll examples.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: You like deep theory
Skip if: You hate lectures
Tech focus: Hook Recovery, Mandible Strangle, Rear Body Lock
Biggest takeaway: Concepts drive control
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What You'll Learn
Danaher’s seminal back curriculum explains why control must precede submission, and how to structure handfighting on underhook and overhook sides. It is theory-heavy but precise. The content birthed many modern systems.
Expect eight volumes of methodical instruction with core dilemmas, hook recovery, and finishing sequences. Retention tactics are the highlight. The set skews no-gi, but concepts map to gi well. Ideal if you want first-principles clarity.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Seatbelt Elbow Control
- Overhook Underhook Sides
- Hook Recovery
- Mandible Strangle
- Arm Drag Counters
- Rear Body Lock
- Diagonal Control
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 9 hours and 6 minutes
- Volumes: 8
- Released: 2018
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I keep returning to this when students plateau; its structure clarifies why your back escapes are happening and how to reverse them.
Why John Danaher?
John Danaher is one of the most influential BJJ coaches with a reputation for rigorous, systematic instruction. His students popularized modern strangling mechanics.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Changed how I think about back control entirely.
- The clearest framework for retention and finishing.
- Worth every minute if you like concepts.
- Still the reference standard in 2025.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Lectures are long; pacing can be slow.
- Not much live footage to show timing.
- Pricey if you only want a few techniques.
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Smart Alternatives
- Systematically Attacking The Back – Adds live breakdowns and updated finishing combos. (Price: $349.00, 8 vols, 2020)
- The Complete MG Back Attack System: Gi – Gi-focused finishing from a legend. (Price: $149.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Back Attacks: Enter The System on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
