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Best Craig Jones Instructionals: All 26 Ranked
90+ hours watched, all 26 Craig Jones instructionals ranked from best to worst by a black belt, with BJJ World ratings and community feedback cross-checked against real mat testing.
Heads up: the BJJ Fanatics links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes the rankings – every pick is tested on the mat first.
Jump to a pick
- 1. Power Ride
- 2. Make Z-Guard Great Again
- 3. The Anti-Wrestling Equation
- 4. Octopus Guard 2.0
- 5. Systematic Submission Dilemmas
- 6. Get Off My Legs, Gringo
- 7. Power Bottom
- 8. Just Stand Up
- 9. Edging Your Way Out of Danger
- 10. Closet (Closed) Guard
- 11. Power Top
- 12. Higher Tripod Passing
- 13. False Reap Accusations
- 14. Mexican Ground Karate Escapes
- 15. Don’t Be Finished
- 16. You Can’t Kneebahh
- 17. B-Team Bottom Game
- 18. B-Team Top Game
- 19. Balls to Wall
- 20. The Reach Around (Octopus Guard V1)
- 21. Battle Tested Down Under Leg Locks
- 22. Triangle Machine
- 23. How to Pass Guards Quickly & Easily
- 24. Down Under Leg Attacks
- 25. Z-Guard Encyclopedia
- 26. Pendejo Guard (Free)
- Comparison table
- FAQ
The top picks, up front
2026 editionPower Ride
Craig JonesBuy it now. This is where the sport is heading, don’t get left behind.
≈4 h · 6 vols · no-gi · $$Make Z-Guard Great Again
Craig JonesThe easiest guard to learn first. Craig plays knee shield better than anybody.
≈5 h · 6 vols · no-gi · $$Octopus Guard 2.0
Craig JonesCraig’s hottest release, 2,000+ copies in 48 hours. Attach, tilt, redirect.
4 vols · no-gi · $$$I’ve watched 90+ hours of Craig Jones instructionals and ranked all 26 of them to help you find the best one for your game right now. Every entry below is tested on the mat by a black belt reviewer, with community feedback and BJJ World ratings cross-checked against my own experience.
Craig has two main styles these days: leg locks, which made him famous, and what I call wrestle-jitsu, his newer wrestling-and-MMA-integrated game (Power Ride, Anti-Wrestling Equation, Power Bottom, Just Stand Up). Octopus Guard is emerging as a third pillar. He’s funny, he’s to the point, and on technical detail I put him in the same league as Danaher, Gordon Ryan and Lachlan Giles.
How I ranked these
I’ve watched every single Craig Jones instructional front to back, started as a purple belt and now a black belt, and tested them all on the mats. Rankings combine my own mat experience, community feedback from Reddit and BJJ forums, and the production-quality ratings from BJJ World reviewers.
Even the #11 pick here could transform your game. The bar across Craig’s catalog is just that high.
Power Ride
Craig JonesCraig Jones’ best instructional. A completely new pinning system inspired by Khabib Nurmagomedov’s control. I can almost guarantee that every single technique here is something you’ve never been taught before in BJJ.
What it covers
It’s all about the system that people like Khabib Nurmagomedov use to control people, with leg rides, leg shelves, wrist rides and many more unorthodox positions. And Craig Jones argues convincingly that these positions give you much greater control and submission opportunity than the traditional BJJ pins (mount, side control, north south, knee ride and standard back control).
Volumes cover theory (BJJ scoring vs. control, movement principles), leg rides (Turk, Shelf, rear mount variations), upper body control (claw rides, crossface, Dagestani handcuff), turtle solutions (diagonal rides, crab hooks, spiral rides, cradles), BJJ integration (side control, mount, knee on belly, leg drags, body lock), and submissions (arm triangles, Darces, RNC, Half Nelson, Cow Catcher from catch wrestling).
Why it stands out
- I can almost guarantee every single technique is something you’ve never been taught before in BJJ
- I believe Craig’s right that this pinning system is where the sport is heading now that more athletically gifted wrestlers are entering our sport
- Bridges wrestling and BJJ in a way that has never been done before (10/10 BJJ World, Filip Zanki)
My personal favorite Craig Jones DVD. It bridges wrestling and BJJ in an area where BJJ grapplers do not use wrestling techniques like rides.
Filip Zanki, BJJ World (10/10)
Submissions only appear in the final volume, so this is more of a control system than a finishing system. BJJKlar.com noted one segment of “prolonged laughing” felt excessive. If you only want pure wrestling rides without BJJ integration, Jordan Burroughs covers that in more depth.
Everyone. Buy it now. This is where the sport is heading, don’t get left behind!
You only compete under rulesets that don’t reward pinning (rare, but some sub-only events).
Just Stand Up (more pins + standing up from bottom)
Make Z-Guard Great Again
Craig JonesCraig plays the knee shield better than anybody, and this is his definitive guide. I learned a lot of new details, even though I played this positional forever already.
What it covers
It’s about knee shield half guard, both when you have it low (z guard) and high. It covers how to retain this guard against common passes, how to attack the upper body and how to enter leg locks.
Volumes cover fundamentals and retention, passing the knee shield (hip switch pass, headquarters position, weave pass, Jason Rau “Unassuming Bastard” pass, Kit Dale pass), submissions (Kimura with thumbs-grip, Achilles triangle, Yoko Ono triangle, Choi bar), leg lock entries (K-guard relationship, cross ashi garami, backside heel hooks), and transitions (whizzer applications, reinforced half guard).
Why it stands out
- Even though I played this positional forever already, I learned a lot of new details
- My favorite part is actually on how to pass the knee shield (which I always found hard)
- Probably the easiest guard to learn at first – the perfect first guard for beginners
One of the best DVD instructionals I’ve seen this year. A balance of seriousness and humor, making it easier to remember things. Really easy to follow.
Filip Zanki, BJJ World (10/10)
This is a knee shield system, not a complete half guard system. If you want underhook half guard or deep half, Lachlan Giles’ Half Guard Anthology covers the full spectrum. Some of Craig’s idiosyncratic technique naming can be confusing at first.
Beginners who need their first guard. Also advanced players who play knee shield and want to close gaps.
You already have an established z-guard game and want something entirely new.
Systematic Submission Dilemmas (for finishing the leg locks you enter from z-guard)
The Anti-Wrestling Equation
Craig Jones(I love this instructional.) A masterclass on takedowns, breaking people down, and turning wrestling positions into BJJ submissions. Fascinating.
What it covers
It’s about takedowns, wrestling, and breaking people down. It’s also about all the differences between wrestling and jiu jitsu and why some moves work in one but not the other: fascinating.
Craig teaches a very easy to use system to break someone down from a rear body lock, to a 4 point, to the turtle, to a hip, to the back, to a strangle. It covers front headlock systems (snap direction, downblock, Russian figure 4, Russian hamstring), four-point and turtle work (seated anaconda, anaconda uke waza, kata gatame, Peterson roll, maki komi), rear body lock takedowns (kosoto, de ashi harai, tai otoshi, crab hold), and back attacks (RNC both sides, mandible rear naked, garrote, straightjacket, ushiro sankaku).
Why it stands out
- Craig is super knowledgeable about wrestling and MMA and how those differ from BJJ
- The chain from rear body lock to 4 point to turtle to hip to back to strangle flows very well and is easy to use
- If you’re a martial arts nerd and want to learn why supplexes don’t work in jiu jitsu, this is for you
Honestly more about wrestling than anti-wrestling. Much better than any other ‘wrestling for jiu jitsu’ course. Craig built his wrestle-jitsu game from the ground up, based on training with wrestlers like Nicky Rodriguez for ADCC.
BJJMore review
The title “Anti-Wrestling Equation” is misleading – it’s really a wrestling-for-BJJ system. 8 volumes is a lot to implement without a dedicated training partner. For pure counter-wrestling, Andrew Wiltse’s content is more accessible for beginners. For a more systematic standalone wrestling system, John Danaher’s Feet to Floor is more comprehensive.
Get this if you want to bring people down to the ground and keep them down. Also if you struggle with attacking the turtle. Or if you’re a martial arts nerd. (I love this instructional.)
You’re a pure guard puller who never plans to engage standing.
Power Bottom (wrestle-jitsu combo)
Octopus Guard 2.0
Craig JonesCraig’s hottest release – 2,000+ copies sold in 48 hours. A complete guard system for the modern no-gi meta: attach, tilt, redirect. No flexibility or inversions needed.
What it covers
A complete guard system built for modern no-gi against aggressive standing passers. The engine is staying glued to your opponent without needing flexibility, inversions, or perfect guard distance.
Volume 1 covers cleaner entries from seated guard, knee shield, and failed shots. Volume 2 focuses on getting on top through attachment and redirection. Volume 3 adds Darces and Buggy Chokes (including the Ghost Escape to Darce combination). Volume 4 covers turtle, leg attacks, and crucifix entries.
Why it stands out
- 2,000+ copies in 48 hours, $300K+ gross in the first month
- Built around “attach, tilt, redirect” – works without flexibility or inversions
- Ghost Escape to Darce combination is a genuine innovation that caught fire on social media
8.5/10. A meaningful upgrade from the original Reach Around, with cleaner entries and better finishing options.
BJJ World
At $197, this is Craig’s most expensive instructional. Gordon Ryan released a free 4-minute counter video claiming these are “low-percentage moves,” sparking a feud. Craig donated $30K from sales to 1800RESPECT in response. The original Reach Around was a mini product, so V2 at premium pricing is a significant jump.
Intermediate-to-advanced no-gi players who face aggressive standing passers and want a scramble-based guard that keeps them attached through transitions.
You prefer static guard positions or play primarily gi. Budget-conscious buyers may want to wait for a sale.
Power Bottom (mix octopus guard with wrestle-ups) and Closet Guard
Systematic Submission Dilemmas
Craig JonesThe best instructional about breaking mechanics I’ve seen. Given that Craig broke so many people’s legs (remember Vinny Magalhaes), I think he’s the best teacher about this topic.
What it covers
Leg lock finishing mechanics, triangle finishing mechanics for all 5 triangle chokes, and how to combine upper and lower body attacks.
Volumes cover how to break legs (outside/inside heel hook mechanics, twisting leg locks, toe holds, Estima lock, Aoki lock), straight leg locks (50/50 straight ankle Lachlan Giles style, kneebar finishing), triangle finishing (omote sankaku, hantai sankaku, ushiro sankaku, gyaku sankaku with extension grip), triangle entries (lumberjack, overhook, Williams guard, submission-to-triangle entries), and combination attacks from all positions.
Why it stands out
- This is the best instructional about breaking mechanics I’ve seen – it teaches how to actually break a leg, not just pop it
- The triangle part is also great (but could be replaced by a Danaher dvd)
- The leg lock entries are still up to date
Craig Jones is precise, to the point, wasting no time and demonstrating techniques in extreme detail. One title you shouldn’t miss out on.
BJJ World
Some material feels dated – Craig doesn’t use the false reap in this instructional, which he would likely include if filming today. John Danaher’s Triangles: Enter the System is more systematic for pure triangle technique. Lachlan Giles’ Leg Lock Anthology is a more modern leg lock system. 8 volumes is dense.
Get this if you want to make sure you really know how to break a leg (not just pop it). And if you want to spice up your leg entries.
You’re a beginner who hasn’t learned basic leg lock positions yet.
Make Z-Guard Great Again (for entries) and Get Off My Legs, Gringo (for defense)
Get Off My Legs, Gringo
Craig JonesThe most complete leg lock defense instructional available. Craig covers early, middle and late stage defense. I learned a lot of details, and many more went over my head. I already radically improved my defense from single x.
What it covers
Leg lock defense. Early, middle and late stage. So it covers how to defend and escape single x, 50/50 and saddle, the reap, backside 50/50 and double trouble and even deep heel hooks.
Volumes cover basic concepts (hip positioning, knee line concept, hand fighting principles, height principle), heel hook escapes (Eddie Cummings heel slip method, double trouble principle), deep cross ashi defense (misdirection-based defense – the “star of the instructional”), shallow ashi and 50/50 defense (cross feet, hand fighting), outside attack defense (straight ashi, split squat ashi, seated ashi), and prevention from all guard positions (butterfly, half, closed, reverse X).
Why it stands out
- Craig is super knowledgeable about leg lock defense. I learned a lot of details, and many more went over my head
- The misdirection-based defense section is the “star of the instructional” (Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World)
- Focuses on “make that leg lock not work” rather than simply escaping
Craig’s defensive-oriented work is superior to his submission instructionals. The misdirection-based defense is the star of the instructional.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8/10)
Not suitable for beginners – requires understanding of ashi garami positions, heel hooks, and leg entanglements. Gordon Ryan’s Pillars of Defense: Leg Lock Escapes offers a more comprehensive and updated system. Lachlan Giles’ Leg Lock Defense on Submeta is another strong alternative.
Get this if you’re tired of being heel hooked by people who are worse than you.
You’re a beginner who doesn’t yet understand basic leg entanglement positions.
Systematic Submission Dilemmas (offense and defense together)
Power Bottom
Craig JonesA wrestle-up guard system that changed how I play guard. My experience is that I find the wrestle-ups hard to complete most of the time, but trying them makes everything else in my guard a lot easier.
What it covers
How to wrestle up, how to gain height and stand up from guard, bottom turtle and how to threaten gaining height to enter traditional guard attacks.
Volumes cover Mexican concepts and long-range guard (double leg setups from seated guard), knee manipulation and single leg combos (reverse De La Riva, arm drags, ankle picks), mid-range guard (ashi garami entries, front headlock setups, heisting), reverse Z guard and short-range guard (knee levers, false half guard, overwrap), offensive turtle (Granby rolls, kneebar attacks, power half Nelson), and all-fours transitions (uchi mata, harai goshi, rear body lock to ashi garami).
Why it stands out
- My experience is that I find the wrestle-ups hard to complete most of the time, but trying them makes everything else in my guard a lot easier
- Pretty much everything is new – building height from guard, from turtle, to 4 point, to standing. All new and fascinating
- Filip Zanki (BJJ World) rated it 9/10 and praised “unique ways of approaching the guard”
Craig really explores some unique ways of approaching the guard using wrestling-based techniques. Professional camera work, multiple angles, HD quality.
Filip Zanki, BJJ World (9/10)
Advanced material requires substantial prior knowledge of no-gi positions and leg locks. Not beginner-friendly. Gordon Ryan’s Seated Guard offers a more systematic and beginner-friendly alternative. The B Team Bottom Game is the updated version and largely supersedes this.
Get this if you want to learn a new style of guard in which you constantly threaten to stand back up. (I think this instructional pairs very well with the Anti-Wrestling Equation.)
You’re a beginner or primarily a gi player.
Anti-Wrestling Equation (the wrestle-jitsu combo)
Just Stand Up
Craig JonesIf you know me, you know I love this instructional. I’m 100% on board with Craig’s quest to learn from MMA and wrestling to make jiu jitsu even more effective than it already is.
What it covers
Much like Craig’s other recent instructionals (Anti-Wrestling, Power Top, Power Bottom and Power Ride), Just Stand Up integrates traditional and folk style wrestling techniques into grappling. It has more pins like those in Power Ride, and more ways to build height like in Power Bottom.
Volumes cover updated turtle position (elbow tucking, foot positioning, Granby rolls, building height when standing), seat belt control and hip sit technique (power half control, bodylock defenses, Turk ride), leg rides and crossface techniques (staples, underhook controls, arm triangle variations), and unorthodox setups (North-South attacks, Sucker Drag, Barrel Roll, Shultz choke, Saitiev Reversal).
Why it stands out
- If you know me, you know I love this instructional — 100% on board with Craig’s quest to integrate wrestling into BJJ
- BJJ World rated it 9/10 for addressing “common mistakes we do in BJJ when it comes to pinning”
- Sucker Drag, Barrel Roll, and Saitiev Reversal are unique techniques you won’t find elsewhere
9/10. Addresses common mistakes we do in BJJ when it comes to pinning and bridges wrestling principles into BJJ turtle work.
BJJ World
The title is misleading – only DVDs 1-2 cover standing up. DVDs 3-4 pivot to pinning offense, making this feel more like “Power Ride Lite.” Priit Mihkelson’s Turtle and Defensive BJJ is more detailed for pure turtle escapes. At 4 volumes, it’s one of Craig’s shorter releases.
If you liked Power Ride but still find it hard to convert your new pins to submissions (like me), you’ll find new weapons here. If you liked Power Bottom but still find yourself getting choked on your way up, this will give you more details.
You already own Power Ride and Power Bottom and feel confident with both. Overlap is significant.
Edging Your Way Out of Danger
Craig JonesLate-stage submission escapes with calm, practical mechanics. The “edge out” philosophy is easy to remember under stress, and it makes escapes fun because you’re attacking again fast.
What it covers
Late-stage submission escapes with a focus on small, deliberate movements. Craig’s philosophy: bad positions are not really that bad – all you need is patience.
Volumes cover principles of positional escapes, side control escapes (hip escapes, running man position – static variation, Heisman escape, single leg escape), mount escapes (knee-elbow, bridge, kipping), and back mount escapes (sliding-back, body triangle defense, single hook escape). Includes the buggy choke escape tested against Jay Rodriguez.
Why it stands out
- “Edge out” philosophy is easy to remember under stress — small deliberate movements rather than grand explosive ones
- Makes escapes fun – you’re attacking again fast after escaping
- Rated 8.5/10 by Ognen Dzabirski at BJJ World
Craig’s philosophy that bad positions are not really that bad — all you need is patience. Small, deliberate movements as opposed to grand ones.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8.5/10)
At only 3 hours across 4 volumes, this is one of Craig’s shorter instructionals. Gordon Ryan’s escape volumes offer 10+ hours of content. Does not cover leg lock escapes (covered in Get Off My Legs Gringo). Priit Mihkelson’s Defense instructionals offer a different, more systematic defensive philosophy.
Everyone; fills real holes for blue-purple belts. The “edge out” approach is immediately usable.
You already master Danaher-style escapes and want only leg defense.
Get Off My Legs, Gringo (for leg lock escapes)
Closet (Closed) Guard
Craig JonesMakes closed guard proactive again, not stalling. A great “plan B” when wrestle-ups get stuffed, rated 8.5/10 by BJJ World.
What it covers
Craig’s modern take on closed guard for no-gi. Turns the most fundamental guard into an active attacking hub with sweeps, submissions, and transition threats. Covers tethered control, breaking posture mechanics, and linking submissions from closed guard to back takes and leg entries.
Why it stands out
- Makes closed guard proactive again, not just a stalling position
- Great “plan B” when wrestle-ups get stuffed – switch to closed guard and attack
- Rated 8.5/10 by BJJ World (Ognen Dzabirski)
8.5/10. A solid refresher on the most fundamental guard position with modern no-gi details.
BJJ World
Closed guard is the most covered topic in all of BJJ. Danaher’s Guardian series is more comprehensive. If you never close guard in no-gi (many modern players don’t), this may not see much use.
Players who want a tethered, safe attacking hub when other guards get shut down.
You never close guard in no-gi.
Power Bottom (mix close/open with wrestle-ups)
Power Top
Craig JonesI actually don’t like this one that much, because a big part is about a passing style in which you only engage with your opponent on favorable terms. Obviously very effective in competition, but I think it makes for somewhat boring rolls in the gym.
What it covers
It’s about passing guard against 3 types of guard players: people on their back, seated guard players, and people that don’t want to stay on their back. Uses a disengage/re-engage philosophy where you only attack on favorable terms.
Covers stacks, torreandos, leg drags, split squat stance, J-Point camping, and the high-step trilemma. BJJ World rated it 8/10.
Why it stands out
- Extremely effective competition passing strategy – only engage when you have the advantage
- The disengage/re-engage philosophy is genuinely how top competitors pass at the highest levels
- BJJ World rated it 8/10
8/10. Effective guard passing system built around selective engagement.
BJJ World
I actually don’t like this one that much. The disengagement-heavy style makes for somewhat boring rolls in the gym. And I feel like the more I engage, the more I learn. Don’t get it if you want to learn how to pass established guards (passing closed guard, passing de la riva, etc.) because it’s not about that.
Get this if you want to learn how to pass while giving your opponent nothing. Competition-focused grapplers will love this.
You want to learn how to pass established guards, or you value engaging training over competition optimization.
Higher Tripod Passing (tactical add-on)
Higher Tripod Passing
Craig JonesConcise, tactical add-on to Power Top. Based on Josef Chen’s system with Craig’s personal refinements, this is a “what’s working now” module.
What it covers
Based on Josef Chen’s tripod passing system with Craig’s refinements. Covers tripod mechanics, forcing butterfly guard, near-side underhook passing, duck-under passes, and dogfight transitions. Includes the “Tiananmen Square Lockdown” position (Craig’s naming humor at work). Applicable to both gi and no-gi.
Why it stands out
- Great “what’s working now” module – current passing meta
- Rated 8.5/10 by Ognen Dzabirski at BJJ World
- Applicable to both gi and no-gi
8.5/10. Practical, efficient passing system built on Josef Chen’s framework.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World
Only ~2 hours, so this is a focused tactical module rather than a comprehensive passing system. Requires existing passing knowledge. Works best as an add-on to Power Top.
Passers already comfortable disengaging/re-engaging who want the latest meta passing techniques.
You’re new to passing – start with Power Top first.
False Reap Accusations
Craig JonesI don’t like this instructional too much because it feels unfinished. It’s quite short, and Craig talks about some sections that didn’t make it into the dvd. But the false reap position is very hot right now in high level no-gi.
What it covers
The false reap, which is a position from which you can enter leg attacks. It’s very hot right now in high level no gi competition. Features practitioners like Kichuk, Pato, Couch, Rau, and Garmo demonstrating entries and transitions into cross ashi garami and other modern leg entanglements.
Why it stands out
- The false reap is one of the hottest positions in modern no-gi competition
- Features multiple high-level practitioners demonstrating entries
- Connects directly to cross ashi garami and modern leg entanglements
This is an instructional you can skip, because the quality is a bit lower and it’s a small topic. It feels unfinished – Craig talks about some sections that didn’t make it into the dvd. I would only get this if you identify as a leg locker and want to learn this new entry.
Serious leg lockers who specifically want to learn the false reap entry system.
You’re not deeply into leg locks. The quality is lower than Craig’s other recent work.
Systematic Submission Dilemmas (for finishing the entries you create)
Mexican Ground Karate Escapes
Craig JonesI’m actually great at guillotines (relatively speaking) and I see that these escapes are the only ones that work against me. The guillotine is one of the easiest submissions to get tapped with by people who are much worse than you.
What it covers
Escapes from front headlock submissions, such as the guillotine, d’arce and anaconda choke. Craig also shares great details for finishing all these submissions, so you learn both sides. Context: Craig coached Alexander Volkanovski for UFC fights, and this material reflects MMA crossover applications.
Why it stands out
- Super good details. These escapes are the only ones that work against me as a guillotine specialist (relatively speaking)
- The guillotine is one of the easiest submissions to get tapped with by people much worse than you – this solves that
- Teaches both offense and defense for front headlock positions
Only ~2 hours across 2 volumes, making it one of Craig’s shortest instructionals. Danaher’s Front Headlock: Enter the System is far more comprehensive for pure guillotine offense. Limited to front headlock positions only.
Get this if you want to counter guillotines. (This one is also great in combination with Power Bottom, in which you learn to get up from guard, because you can get up without fearing the guillotine.)
You rarely face front headlocks in training.
Power Bottom (get up from guard without fearing the guillotine)
Don’t Be Finished
Craig JonesGreat habits for avoiding panic and conserving energy. Immediately useful for hobbyists and competitors alike.
What it covers
Positional escapes from mount, side control, back mount, and other common bad positions. Designed for lower belts who need survival skills before developing offense. Focuses on remaining calm, conserving energy, and building incremental escape habits.
Why it stands out
- Great habits for avoiding panic and conserving energy under pressure
- Immediately useful for hobbyists and competitors at lower belt levels
- Foundational defense that every beginner needs
Overlaps with Edging Your Way Out, though this is more beginner-focused while Edging covers late-stage submission escapes. More experienced grapplers will find the content basic.
White-blue belts building survival first.
You only train offense (don’t).
Power Ride (understand the pin you’re escaping)
You Can’t Kneebahh
Craig JonesFills the kneebar gap in Craig’s otherwise heel-hook-heavy catalog. Clear leg-positioning cues lead to better breaks.
What it covers
A focused deep dive on kneebar mechanics, entries, and finishing. Craig’s catalog is heavily heel-hook focused, and this fills the kneebar gap with clear leg-positioning cues and breaking details that transfer directly to competition.
Why it stands out
- Fills the kneebar gap in Craig’s heel-hook-heavy catalog
- Clear leg-positioning cues that transfer directly to competition
- Practical focus on finishing, not just catching
Niche topic that only appeals to dedicated leg lockers. If you rarely attack kneebars, this won’t see much use. Relatively short compared to Craig’s major releases.
Leg-lockers expanding beyond heel hooks who want a dedicated kneebar system.
You rarely attack legs.
False Reap Accusations (entries that lead to kneebar positions)
B-Team Bottom Game
Craig JonesThe updated and expanded version of Power Bottom, featuring Craig Jones and Nicky Rodriguez. Largely supersedes the original.
What it covers
An expanded version of Power Bottom with added content from Nicky Rodriguez. Covers the wrestle-up guard system, turtle offense, height building, and wrestling integration from bottom position. Nicky Rod adds his athletic wrestling perspective to Craig’s conceptual framework.
Why it stands out
- Updated version of Power Bottom with additional Nicky Rodriguez content
- Combines Craig’s conceptual approach with Nicky Rod’s athletic wrestling background
- More comprehensive than the original Power Bottom
If you already own Power Bottom, much of the Craig Jones content is the same. The Nicky Rod additions may not justify a second purchase. Gordon Ryan’s Seated Guard is more systematic for pure guard play.
Players new to Craig’s bottom game system who want the most complete version.
You already own Power Bottom – the overlap is significant.
B-Team Top Game
Craig JonesThe updated Power Top with Nicky Rodriguez’s additions. Same disengage/re-engage passing philosophy, now with more athletic options.
What it covers
An expanded version of Power Top with Nicky Rodriguez’s wrestling-based passing additions. Same disengage/re-engage philosophy, with added content on dynamic passing transitions and athletic passing sequences.
Why it stands out
- More passing options than the original Power Top
- Nicky Rodriguez adds athletic wrestling-based passing sequences
- Updated for the current no-gi meta
Same issue as Power Top – the disengagement style makes for boring gym rolls. If you already own Power Top, the overlap is significant. I actually don’t like this passing philosophy that much for training (the more I engage, the more I learn).
Competition-focused passers who want the most complete version of Craig’s passing system.
You already own Power Top or prefer engaging passing styles.
Balls to Wall
Craig JonesA rare deep dive on cage wrestling for MMA. Transfers well to gyms that train with a wall. Craig’s UFC coaching experience with Alexander Volkanovski shows here.
What it covers
Cage wrestling techniques for MMA and grappling gyms with a wall. Covers wall-based takedowns, scrambles, positional control against the cage, and transitions from cage clinch to ground control. Features 40+ techniques drawn from Craig’s coaching work with UFC fighters like Alexander Volkanovski and Jack Della Maddalena.
Why it stands out
- Rare deep dive on a crucial MMA skill-set – very few instructionals cover this
- Transfers well to gyms that train with a wall or barrier
- Craig’s UFC coaching experience (Volkanovski, Della Maddalena) brings real-world MMA credibility
Pure sport BJJ players who never train against a wall or barrier will get zero use from this. Very niche content that only serves a specific training environment.
MMA athletes and grapplers who spar with a wall.
Your gym never trains against barriers (pure sport BJJ).
The Reach Around (Octopus Guard V1)
Craig JonesThe original Octopus Guard mini product. Great for smaller players who thrive in movement, but now superseded by the full Octopus Guard 2.0 system.
What it covers
The original scramble-based Octopus Guard concept. Focused on winning individual scrambles through attachment and movement. A mini product that introduced the concept later fully developed in Octopus Guard 2.0.
Why it stands out
- Great for smaller players who thrive in movement-based grappling
- Introduced the octopus guard concept that became a full system in V2
- Pairs well with wrestle-ups and back-takes
At ~1 hour, this is a mini product, not a full instructional. Octopus Guard 2.0 covers everything here and much more. Only buy this if V2 is out of your budget.
Dynamic guard players on a budget who want to sample the octopus guard concept.
You can afford Octopus Guard 2.0, which supersedes this entirely.
Battle Tested Down Under Leg Locks
Craig JonesCraig’s intermediate-era leg lock instructional. Back-take integrations feel very “Craig,” but largely superseded by newer releases.
What it covers
Leg lock entries, finishing mechanics, and back-take integrations from leg entanglements. Part of Craig’s early catalog from the DDS era. Good as an intermediate upgrade after learning basics, but the entries and finishing are covered better in his newer work.
Why it stands out
- Back-take integrations from leg entanglements feel very “Craig”
- Good intermediate upgrade after learning basic ashi control
- 5/5 from BJJ World (older rating scale)
Solid DDS-era material with Craig’s signature back-take integrations.
BJJ World (5/5, older scale)
Entries and finishing are covered better in Make Z-Guard Great Again (entries) and Systematic Submission Dilemmas (finishing). Pre-B-Team era material. Consider this outdated if you own his newer catalog.
Intermediate leg-lockers on a budget who want DDS-era material.
You already own SSD or Make Z-Guard Great Again.
Triangle Machine
Craig JonesShort, affordable upgrade to triangle mechanics. Builds confidence to attack up the middle. Has been offered free by BJJ Fanatics.
What it covers
Triangle choke mechanics, entries, and finishing details. One of Craig’s earliest releases at just ~40 minutes. The triangle mechanics are still solid, but now covered far more comprehensively in Systematic Submission Dilemmas.
Why it stands out
- Short and affordable introduction to Craig’s triangle approach
- Has been offered free by BJJ Fanatics – check availability
- 5/5 from BJJ World (older rating scale)
A quick intro to triangle mechanics from one of BJJ’s best finishers.
BJJ World (5/5, older scale)
At ~40 minutes, this is barely an instructional. Systematic Submission Dilemmas covers all of this and far more across 8 volumes. Only worth getting if it’s free or heavily discounted.
Anyone adding reliable upper-body subs on a tight budget.
You own Systematic Submission Dilemmas, which supersedes this entirely.
How to Pass Guards Quickly & Easily
Craig JonesA “bridge” instructional for leg lockers who want to convert leg attacks into guard passes. Efficient for points players, but dated.
What it covers
How to use leg lock threats to create passing opportunities. If you already attack legs, this teaches you to convert failed entries into guard passes and score points. DDS-era content from Craig’s time training under Danaher.
Why it stands out
- Great “bridge” concept connecting leg attacks with guard passing
- Efficient for points-based competitors
- 5/5 from BJJ World (older rating scale)
A clever concept connecting leg attacks to passing, though now superseded.
BJJ World (5/5, older scale)
Dated (2019) and superseded by Power Top’s more comprehensive passing system. The passing philosophy here is DDS-era, not Craig’s current B-Team approach. If you want Craig’s current passing, get Power Top.
Leg-lockers who want higher pass percentage in points competition.
You want Craig’s current passing methodology – get Power Top.
Down Under Leg Attacks
Craig JonesCraig’s earliest leg lock instructional – a budget-friendly intro to his leg philosophy. Still applicable in no-gi, but clearly superseded by newer releases.
What it covers
Craig’s foundational leg lock system from his early career. Covers basic ashi garami positions, heel hook entries and finishing, and leg lock combinations. Part of the “Down Under” series that established Craig as a top leg lock instructor. Reviewed by David Bista at BJJ World (5/5).
Why it stands out
- Budget-friendly introduction to Craig’s leg lock philosophy
- Still applicable in no-gi today for fundamental concepts
- 5/5 from BJJ World (David Bista review, older rating scale)
A solid introduction to leg locks from Craig’s early career.
David Bista, BJJ World (5/5, older scale)
This is Craig’s 2018 material – before the DDS refinements and B-Team evolution. Make Z-Guard Great Again (entries) and Systematic Submission Dilemmas (finishing) cover everything here and much more. Buy only if deeply discounted.
New leg-lockers on a budget who want Craig’s foundational material.
You already have SSD-level expertise, or can afford newer releases.
Z-Guard Encyclopedia
Craig JonesCraig’s original z-guard material. A low-cost way to test if z-guard fits your game, but clearly superseded by Make Z-Guard Great Again.
What it covers
Craig’s original z-guard instructional covering knee shield fundamentals, sweeps, and leg lock entries. This was the first comprehensive z-guard product on BJJ Fanatics, but Make Z-Guard Great Again covers all of this in much greater depth with better production quality.
Why it stands out
- Low-cost way to test if z-guard fits your game
- Pairs with the newer Make Z-Guard Great Again for comparison
- 5/5 from BJJ World (older rating scale)
The original z-guard system that put Craig on the instructional map.
BJJ World (5/5, older scale)
Completely superseded by Make Z-Guard Great Again, which covers everything here in more depth with updated techniques. Only get this for budget reasons.
Budget learners exploring knee-shield.
You want only Craig’s latest material – get Make Z-Guard Great Again.
Pendejo Guard (Free)
Craig JonesA free mini-course that turns knee shield and RDLR into wrestle-ups and leg entries. Zero-cost way to sample Craig’s newer entry ideas.
What it covers
A concise free no-gi guard system that connects knee shield and reverse de la riva into wrestle-ups and leg lock entries. Links to false reap and cross ashi entries. Not a beginner course – assumes familiarity with knee shield, RDLR, and false reap mechanics.
Why it stands out
- Zero-cost way to sample Craig’s newer entry ideas
- Great teaser for the full False Reap Accusations instructional
- Available free at bjjfanatics.com/pages/the-pendejo-guard
Very short and assumes existing knowledge. Not suitable for beginners. May go offline at any time – grab it while it’s available.
Everyone – grab it if it’s live. Free content is free content.
It’s offline – go straight to False Reap.
All picks, side by side
Comparison tableSwipe sideways for details · the price column stays pinned →
| # | Instructional | Instructor | Runtime | Level | Format | Category | Tier | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Power Ride | Craig Jones | ~4 hours across 6 volumes | All levels | No-gi (principles apply to gi) | A new philosophy on pinning | $$ | Check price → |
| 2 | Make Z-Guard Great Again | Craig Jones | ~5 hours across 6 volumes | White to black belt | No-gi (concepts transfer to gi) | The knee-shield blueprint | $$ | Check price → |
| 3 | The Anti-Wrestling Equation | Craig Jones | ~6-8 hours across 8 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Wrestle-jitsu, explained | $$ | Check price → |
| 4 | Octopus Guard 2.0 | Craig Jones | 4 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Attach, tilt, redirect | $$$ | Check price → |
| 5 | Systematic Submission Dilemmas | Craig Jones | ~6-8 hours across 8 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Triangles x leg locks | $$ | Check price → |
| 6 | Get Off My Legs, Gringo | Craig Jones | ~6 hours across 6 volumes | Intermediate+ (must understand leg entanglements) | No-gi | Complete leg-lock defense | $$ | Check price → |
| 7 | Power Bottom | Craig Jones | ~5.5 hours across 6 volumes | Purple belts and above | No-gi | Wrestle-up guard system | $$ | Check price → |
| 8 | Just Stand Up | Craig Jones | ~4 hours across 4 volumes | Intermediate (requires wrestling knowledge) | No-gi | How jiu jitsu doesn’t work | $$ | Check price → |
| 9 | Edging Your Way Out of Danger | Craig Jones | ~3 hours across 4 volumes | All levels | No-gi | Submission escapes | $$ | Check price → |
| 10 | Closet (Closed) Guard | Craig Jones | ~3.5 hours across 4 parts | All levels | No-gi (concepts transfer to gi) | Sticky classic, modern details | $$ | Check price → |
| 11 | Power Top | Craig Jones | ~4-6 hours across 6 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Strategic guard passing | $$ | Check price → |
| 12 | Higher Tripod Passing | Craig Jones | ~2 hours across 4 volumes | Intermediate+ passers | No-gi (applicable to gi) | Current meta passing | $ | Check price → |
| 13 | False Reap Accusations | Craig Jones | ~2-3 hours | Advanced leg lockers | No-gi | Modern entry system | $ | Check price → |
| 14 | Mexican Ground Karate Escapes | Craig Jones | ~2 hours across 2 volumes | All levels | No-gi | Front-headlock survival | $ | Check price → |
| 15 | Don’t Be Finished | Craig Jones | ~3 hours | White-blue belts | No-gi | Positional escapes for beginners | $ | Check price → |
| 16 | You Can’t Kneebahh | Craig Jones | ~2-3 hours | Intermediate+ leg lockers | No-gi | A deep dive | $ | Check price → |
| 17 | B-Team Bottom Game | Craig Jones | ~6 hours | Purple belts and above | No-gi | With nicky rodriguez | $$ | Check price → |
| 18 | B-Team Top Game | Craig Jones | ~6 hours | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | With nicky rodriguez | $$ | Check price → |
| 19 | Balls to Wall | Craig Jones | ~4 hours | MMA athletes and grapplers who train with a wall | MMA/No-gi | Cage wrestling for mma | $$ | Check price → |
| 20 | The Reach Around (Octopus Guard V1) | Craig Jones | ~1 hour | All levels | No-gi | Scrambles you can’t lose | $ | Check price → |
| 21 | Battle Tested Down Under Leg Locks | Craig Jones | ~2h 52m | Intermediate leg lockers | No-gi | Entries & finishes | $ | Check price → |
| 22 | Triangle Machine | Craig Jones | ~40 min across 7 chapters | All levels | No-gi | Clamp your way to finishes | $ | Check price → |
| 23 | How to Pass Guards Quickly & Easily | Craig Jones | ~3 hours | Intermediate leg lockers | No-gi | Using leg attacks | $ | Check price → |
| 24 | Down Under Leg Attacks | Craig Jones | ~4 DVDs | Beginner to intermediate | No-gi | Craig’s early leg-lock system | $ | Check price → |
| 25 | Z-Guard Encyclopedia | Craig Jones | ~3 hours | All levels | No-gi | The early blueprint | $ | Check price → |
| 26 | Pendejo Guard (Free) | Craig Jones | 6 chapters (short) | Intermediate+ | No-gi | False-reap adjacent entries | Free | Get free → |
Which Craig Jones Instructional Should You Buy?
🥷 Find Your Craig Jones Instructional
Overwhelmed by the options? Find the perfect instructional for your game by answering 3 quick questions.
Let’s start with your main training style:
Who Is Craig Jones?
Craig Jones is an Australian grappler with 63 wins (51 by submission) who became famous at ADCC 2017 when he submitted 5x World Champion Leandro Lo by rear naked choke. He holds two ADCC silver medals (2019, 2022), a 2017 ADCC bronze, and three Polaris Pro titles.
He trained under Lachlan Giles at Absolute MMA in Melbourne before moving to New York to join John Danaher’s Death Squad. After the DDS split in 2021, he co-founded B-Team Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, TX with Nicky Rodriguez and Ethan Crelinsten. He left B-Team in July 2025 to focus on MMA coaching (he cornered Alexander Volkanovski and Jack Della Maddalena in the UFC) and his charity, the Guardian Project.
In 2024, he founded the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI), which directly competed with ADCC. CJI 2 in August 2025 saw B-Team win the $1M team tournament, with Craig putting Chael Sonnen to sleep twice in a superfight.
What Makes Craig Jones a Good Instructor
- Funny. He makes (lame) jokes now and then, which makes it way easier to pay attention. (He seems to be the only guy in BJJ that realises that entertainment is part of being a good teacher.)
- To the point. Craig’s instructionals are a little shorter than others, and you should thank him for that. He doesn’t repeat himself for no reason and he stays on topic.
- Great techniques. He corrects many details that are usually thought wrong, and he shares techniques that only he knows. As far as technical details, I put him in the same league as John Danaher, Gordon Ryan and Lachlan Giles.
Craig’s Two Styles: Leg Locks & Wrestle-Jitsu
Craig’s Two Styles: Leg Locks & Wrestle-Jitsu
Craig Jones has two main styles these days: leg locks and what I call wrestle-jitsu.
Leg locks are what made him famous – he’s still one of the best in the world at them, and he often enters from unexpected positions.
Wrestle-jitsu is his newer style, inspired by ADCC and UFC coaching experience. It’s all about refusing to accept bottom position, keeping opponents pinned who don’t want to stay there, and effective takedowns.
Octopus Guard is emerging as a third pillar – a scramble-based guard system that bridges bottom game and top game by staying attached to opponents through transitions.
Recommended Combos
- Wrestle-jitsu combo: Power Bottom + Anti-Wrestling Equation + Mexican Ground Karate Escapes + Power Ride
- Leg lock combo: Make Z-Guard Great Again + Systematic Submission Dilemmas + Get Off My Legs, Gringo
- Octopus combo: Octopus Guard 2.0 + Power Bottom + Closet Guard
Suggested Watch Order
Suggested Watch Order
| Path | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Z-Guard | Power Bottom | Submission Escapes | — |
| Intermediate | Power Ride | Anti-Wrestling | SSD | — |
| Leg Lock | Z-Guard | SSD | GOMLG | False Reap |
| MMA | Anti-Wrestling | Power Ride | Just Stand Up | Balls to Wall |
Best Craig Jones Instructional by Goal
Best Craig Jones Instructional by Goal
| Goal | Best Pick | Also Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Guard for beginners | Make Z-Guard Great Again | Power Bottom |
| Pinning & top control | Power Ride | Just Stand Up |
| Takedowns & wrestling | Anti-Wrestling Equation | Balls to Wall |
| Leg lock finishing | Systematic Submission Dilemmas | You Can’t Kneebahh |
| Leg lock defense | Get Off My Legs, Gringo | — |
| Submission escapes | Edging Your Way Out | Don’t Be Finished |
| Guard passing | Power Top | Higher Tripod Passing |
| Closed guard | Closet Guard | — |
| MMA / cage wrestling | Balls to Wall | Anti-Wrestling Equation |
| Front headlock defense | Mexican Ground Karate | — |
| Scramble-based guard | Octopus Guard 2.0 | Reach Around (V1) |
7 Outdated Craig Jones Instructionals (and What to Get Instead)
Some of Craig’s older releases are much shorter and less complete than his modern systems. Craig’s game evolved through three phases: the Australian leg locker era (2017-2018), the DDS integration era (2018-2021), and the B-Team wrestle-jitsu era (2021-present). These older titles are from the first two phases and are now largely superseded.
| Outdated Title | Why Skip It | Get Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle Machine | ~40min, narrow focus | Systematic Submission Dilemmas |
| Leglock Defense (early) | Short, incomplete system | Get Off My Legs, Gringo |
| Floating Z Half | Early z-guard, incomplete | Make Z-Guard Great Again |
| Battle Tested Down Under | Entries/finishing superseded | MZGGA + SSD |
| How to Pass Guards | DDS-era passing, dated (2019) | Power Top |
| Z-Guard Encyclopedia | Original z-guard, superseded | Make Z-Guard Great Again |
| Down Under Leg Attacks | Earliest leg locks, thin (2018) | MZGGA + SSD |
Pro tip: Many of these upgraded instructionals are often on sale – check the BJJ Fanatics Daily Deals page before buying.
Topic Decoder: Which Craig Jones Instructional Covers What?
Clever titles are part of Craig’s style, but they’re not always clear about what the instructional actually teaches. Here’s a plain-English breakdown so you know exactly which one matches your goals:
- Power Ride: Khabib-style pinning adapted for BJJ (leg rides, shelves, wrist rides)
- Make Z-Guard Great Again: Knee shield half guard (offense, defense, passing, leg lock entries)
- Anti-Wrestling Equation: Takedowns, wrestling integration, front headlock system, rear body lock chain
- Octopus Guard 2.0: Scramble-based guard system (attach, tilt, redirect)
- Systematic Submission Dilemmas: Leg lock breaking mechanics + all 5 triangle chokes
- Get Off My Legs, Gringo: Comprehensive leg lock defense (early, middle, late stage)
- Power Bottom / B-Team Bottom: Wrestle-up guard system (threatening to stand makes everything easier)
- Just Stand Up: Turtle escapes + wrestling-style pins (Power Ride Lite + Power Bottom Lite)
- Edging Your Way Out of Danger: Late-stage submission escapes (edge out with small movements)
- Closet Guard: Modern closed guard for no-gi (proactive, not stalling)
- Power Top / B-Team Top: Disengage/re-engage guard passing (only engage on favorable terms)
- Higher Tripod Passing: Tripod-based passing meta (Josef Chen system with Craig’s refinements)
- Mexican Ground Karate Escapes: Guillotine, d’arce, anaconda defense (and offense)
- False Reap Accusations: Modern false reap leg lock entries (hot in competition)
- Don’t Be Finished: Positional escapes for beginners (calm, energy-conserving)
- You Can’t Kneebahh: Kneebar mechanics, entries, and finishing details
- Balls to Wall: MMA cage wrestling (wall-based takedowns and control)
Pricing & Deals
Craig Jones instructionals typically cost $79-$127 on BJJ Fanatics, with occasional premium pricing ($197 for Octopus Guard 2.0). This is significantly cheaper than Gordon Ryan ($346 average) or John Danaher ($268 average).
| Instructor | Avg Price | Price/Hour | Catalog Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craig Jones | $79-$127 | ~$13-$20 | 25+ titles |
| Lachlan Giles | ~$79 | ~$8 | 10+ titles |
| John Danaher | ~$268 | ~$22-$38 | 54 titles |
| Gordon Ryan | ~$346 | ~$31-$43 | 48 titles |
Best time to buy: During BJJ Fanatics daily deals, which rotate through different instructionals every few months and often offer 50% or more discounts. Check the Daily Deals page before buying at full price. Holiday sales (Black Friday, New Year’s) also have site-wide discounts.
Bundle deals: Look for the Down Under Bottom Game Bundle, Down Under Top Game Bundle, and Down Under Leg Locks Bundle for multi-title savings.
Free Craig Jones Content
You searched for “craig jones instructionals free” – here’s what’s actually available for free, legally. No, you can’t download Craig Jones instructionals for free. They’re sold through BJJ Fanatics and pirating them hurts the sport.
- Pendejo Guard (free on BJJ Fanatics) – A concise no-gi guard system connecting knee shield and RDLR into wrestle-ups and leg entries. Grab it while it’s live.
- Triangle Machine, Has been offered free by BJJ Fanatics at various points. Check availability.
- BJJUniversity.com, 79+ free Craig Jones technique videos organized by position.
- BJJ.Tips, 100+ free individual technique videos across 30+ categories.
- YouTube, Search “Craig Jones technique” for free previews from BJJ Fanatics.
- Podcasts, Craig discussed technique on Joe Rogan Experience (JRE MMA Show #157) and multiple BJJ Fanatics Podcast episodes.
Craig Jones Glossary
Craig Jones uses a lot of idiosyncratic naming. Here’s what his terms actually mean:
- Wrestle-jitsu: Craig’s newer style that integrates wrestling and MMA concepts into BJJ. Inspired by ADCC and UFC coaching. Featured in Power Ride, Anti-Wrestling Equation, Power Bottom, and Just Stand Up.
- False reap: A leg entanglement position from which you can enter leg attacks. Very hot in modern no-gi competition. Covered in False Reap Accusations and Pendejo Guard.
- Octopus guard: A scramble-based guard where you stay attached to your opponent through transitions. “Attach, tilt, redirect.” Covered in Octopus Guard 2.0 and The Reach Around (V1).
- Dagestani handcuff: A wrist control technique from wrestling, adapted for BJJ pinning. Featured in Power Ride.
- Turk: A wrestling leg ride where you hook your opponent’s leg from behind while on top. Key position in Power Ride and Just Stand Up.
- Shelf: A leg position where you place your shin across your opponent’s thigh to create a stable pinning platform. Featured in Power Ride.
- Claw ride: An upper body control from wrestling where you grip the far wrist while driving pressure from behind. Featured in Power Ride.
- Heisting: Building height from bottom position (guard, turtle, four-point) to threaten standing up. Key concept in Power Bottom.
- Kipping: A hip escape variation using a kipping motion to create space from mount or side control. Featured in Edging Your Way Out.
- Running man: A defensive position (static variation) used for escaping side control. Featured in Edging Your Way Out.
- Ghost Escape: A transition from bottom to a Darce choke setup. Signature move from Octopus Guard 2.0.
- Sucker Drag: An unorthodox setup from top position. Featured in Just Stand Up.
- Barrel Roll: A transition/reversal technique. Featured in Just Stand Up.
- Saitiev Reversal: Named after wrestler Buvaisar Saitiev. A reversal from bottom pins. Featured in Just Stand Up.
- Choi bar: An inverted armbar variation. Featured in Make Z-Guard Great Again.
- Yoko Ono triangle: Craig’s name for a specific triangle variation. Featured in Make Z-Guard Great Again.
FAQ
Which Craig Jones instructional is best for beginners?
Make Z-Guard Great Again. It teaches knee shield half guard with leg lock entries, and it’s probably the easiest guard to learn at first. Craig plays knee shield better than anybody, so this is his most accessible instructional. For pure escapes, Don’t Be Finished is also designed for lower belts.
What order should I buy Craig Jones instructionals?
It depends on your goals. Beginner path: Z-Guard, then Power Bottom, then Submission Escapes. Intermediate: Power Ride, then Anti-Wrestling Equation, then SSD. Leg lock path: Z-Guard, then SSD, then Get Off My Legs Gringo. MMA: Anti-Wrestling Equation, then Power Ride, then Just Stand Up, then Balls to Wall.
Are Craig Jones instructionals available for free?
Only the Pendejo Guard is officially free on BJJ Fanatics. The Triangle Machine has been offered free at various points. No, you cannot download Craig Jones instructionals for free – they are sold through BJJ Fanatics. Free technique videos are available on YouTube, BJJUniversity.com (79+ clips), and BJJ.Tips (100+ clips).
Is Octopus Guard 2.0 worth it?
At $197, it’s Craig’s most expensive instructional, but it sold 2,000+ copies in 48 hours for a reason. It’s a complete guard system built for modern no-gi that works without flexibility or inversions. If you face aggressive standing passers, it’s worth it. If you’re on a budget, wait for a sale or try the original Reach Around first.
Craig Jones vs Danaher instructionals – which are better?
They complement each other. Danaher teaches the “why”, comprehensive conceptual frameworks. Craig teaches the “how”, practical application and finishing details. Craig is shorter, funnier, and cheaper ($79-$127 vs $268 average). Danaher is more verbose and systematic. Many practitioners own both.
Do Craig Jones instructionals work for gi training?
Most Craig Jones instructionals are filmed in no-gi but translate well to gi training since the concepts focus on underlying mechanics rather than specific grips. Exceptions: Octopus Guard 2.0 is heavily no-gi specific, and some grip-dependent techniques won’t translate.
What’s the difference between Power Ride and Power Top?
Power Ride teaches a completely new pinning system from top position (leg rides, shelves, claw rides). Power Top teaches guard passing using a disengage/re-engage philosophy. They’re complementary: Power Top gets you past the guard, Power Ride controls what happens after.
What’s the difference between Octopus Guard and Octopus Guard 2.0?
The original Reach Around (Octopus Guard V1) is a ~1 hour mini product introducing the scramble concept. Octopus Guard 2.0 is a full 4-volume system ($197) with cleaner entries, better finishing options (Ghost Escape to Darce), and coverage of turtle, legs, and crucifix. V2 supersedes V1 entirely.
Which Craig Jones instructional for white belts?
Start with Make Z-Guard Great Again for your first guard, Don’t Be Finished for escapes, and Power Ride for top control. These three give you a complete game. Avoid leg-lock-heavy titles like SSD or GOMLG until you’re at least a blue belt.
When is the best time to buy Craig Jones instructionals?
During BJJ Fanatics daily deals, which rotate through different instructionals every few months and often offer 50% or more discounts. Holiday sales (Black Friday, New Year’s) also have site-wide discounts. Bundle deals (Down Under Bottom Game, Top Game, Leg Locks) offer multi-title savings.
Is Get Off My Legs Gringo too advanced for beginners?
Yes, it is not suitable for beginners. It’s best suited for intermediate grapplers who are already getting caught in heel hooks and understand basic leg entanglement positions like ashi garami, 50/50, and saddle.
What does the Anti-Wrestling Equation actually cover?
Despite the name, it’s more about wrestling FOR jiu jitsu than anti-wrestling. It covers the full chain from rear body lock to four-point to turtle to hip to back to strangle, plus front headlock attacks (anaconda, Darce, Peruvian necktie), takedowns (kosoto, tai otoshi, de ashi harai), and back attacks (RNC, mandible, straightjacket). 8 volumes of content.
Still deciding which Craig Jones instructional to get?
If you want one, get Power Ride for where the sport is heading, or Make Z-Guard Great Again if you need your first guard. Check the daily deals before paying full price, since Craig’s catalog rotates through 50%+ discounts all year.