Pin hard from side control and layer in unconventional, fast submissions.
The Bottom Line
You will learn to hold side control with rides and clamps. You will attack with triangles, wrist locks, and armbars without losing position. You will not rely on speed-heavy scrambles.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Side-control hunters
Skip if: You dislike tight rides
Tech focus: Scarf Hold, Arm Triangle, Kimura
Biggest takeaway: Pin before attacking
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What You'll Learn
An eight-volume side-control system built on ride pressure and unconventional submissions. Expect hold downs, scarf variations, top wrist locks, step-over triangles, and razor armbars that keep opponents pinned while you attack safely.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Side Control
- Scarf Hold
- Arm Triangle
- Kimura
- Razor Armbar
- Darce
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Technique Collection
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 6 hours and 40 minutes
- Volumes: 8
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I realized how rides let you attack without giving hips or frames back.
Why Neil Melanson?
Melanson’s side-control approach fuses catch rides with no-gi submissions for pin-and-finish efficiency.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Shoulder-pin setups and side pressure translate well from other Melanson sets.
- Ride-based control makes escaping harder while you set traps.
- Excellent finishing variety from a dominant pin.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Sequences can be long and require more drilling time.
- Less appealing if you prefer loose, movement-heavy styles.
- Price is higher than his compact sets.
Smart Alternatives
- Top Half Guard – Easier entries into side control with built-in finishes. (Price: $127.00, 8 vols)
- Cradle of Filth – Different control path that still pins hips and head. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Official listing: View Filthy Cross Body Attacks on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
