We compared Tarik Hopstock's BJJ Fanatics instructionals using r/bjj sentiment, structure, applicability, and pedagogy to help you choose the right one.
Tarikoplata by Tarik Hopstock
Learn the creator's blueprint for the Tarikoplata so you can finish kimura battles with leverage.
The Belly Down Footlock From Single Leg X by Tarik Hopstock
Make your straight ankle lock bite with single leg X and a reliable belly-down finish.
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🥋 #1 Tarikoplata by Tarik Hopstock
Instructor: Tarik Hopstock
Style: System Based, Technique Collection
Best for: All Levels
Format: Both
Runtime: 59 hours and 31 minutes
Volumes: 1
Biggest takeaway: Turn kimura stalls into finishes
Techniques: Tarikoplata, Kimura, Omoplata, Half Guard, S Mount, Turtle
- Mastering The Baratoplata by Joao Miyao – Same shoulder-lock family with deep counters and entries.
- Omoplata by Lachlan Giles – Complete omoplata system to pair with Tarikoplata mechanics.
- Omoplata Everyone by Bernardo Faria – Budget omoplata fundamentals covering classic finishes.
You will learn a clean, repeatable Tarikoplata system with entries from knee-shield, double-unders, S-mount, turtle, and more. You will get troubleshooting that prevents common stalls and clarifies when to switch to omoplata or baratoplata. You will not get a full shoulder-lock encyclopedia or broad top-game passing curriculum.
✅ Pros
- Teaches a distinct submission system that translates across positions.
- Entries and troubleshooting make the finish repeatable without flexibility.
- Comparison with baratoplata clarifies choices and safety details.
⚠️ Cons
- Not a comprehensive shoulder-lock encyclopedia.
- No runtime listed; you must build your drilling plan.
- Safety demands control; beginners can over-torque.
💡 I found the roll and knee-shield entries easiest to add, and the troubleshooting freed me from muscling kimuras. Recommendation: Buy it now.
🥋 #2 The Belly Down Footlock From Single Leg X by Tarik Hopstock
Instructor: Tarik Hopstock
Style: System Based, Drill Heavy
Best for: All Levels
Format: Both
Runtime: 1 hour and 12 minutes
Volumes: 2
Biggest takeaway: Belly-down finish unlocks SAL taps
Techniques: Straight Ankle Lock, Single Leg X, Butterfly Ashi, 50/50, Lapel Single Leg X
- Death From Below by Mikey Musumeci – Broader SAL system with defense answers and guard-based entries.
- The Bird Lock System by Sathya Wiltse – Modern SAL grip variations and deep troubleshooting.
- Dynamic Ankle Locks by Jason Rau – Balanced curriculum with belly-down finishes and counters.
You will learn to create bite on the straight ankle lock using SLX, butterfly ashi, and lapel SLX entries. You will get a dependable belly-down switch that solves common finishing problems. You will not get a full SLX sweep encyclopedia or a heel-hook-heavy no-gi system.
✅ Pros
- Gives a dependable, repeatable straight ankle lock finish.
- Includes lapel SLX options that sweep and slow standing passes.
- Great price for a focused, two-volume system.
⚠️ Cons
- Not a full single leg X sweep curriculum.
- Mostly ankle locks; limited knee bar and toe hold depth.
- Lapel content has lower value for no-gi-only athletes.
💡 I used the belly-down switch to convert stalemates into taps without cranking, and opponents began respecting my single leg X more. Recommendation: Wait for daily deal.
Tarikoplata vs Baratoplata vs Kimura: Which should you chase?
Tarikoplata and baratoplata both derive from kimura control. Tarikoplata adds leg power around the shoulder and works well from knee-shield, double-unders, and top positions. Baratoplata thrives off omoplata and triangle defenses and often suits spider, de la Riva, and K-guard players. If your kimura breaks grips inconsistently, Tarikoplata gives you leverage without strength. If you love collar-sleeve chains and omoplata counters, baratoplata complements that style. Kimura remains the base; build control, then switch based on posture and frames.
Is the belly-down straight ankle lock IBJJF-legal?
Yes. The straight ankle lock is legal for all adult belts in the gi, including white belts, when applied without reaping or twisting. The belly-down variant is a finishing pathway, not a different submission. Always observe local rules and avoid knee rotation. If you compete no-gi at brown and black, heel hooks are legal in IBJJF, but this course focuses on SAL mechanics that carry to many rulesets. Review current rules before events and drill control first.
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