A concept-first plan to dismantle modern open-guard frames and pass consistently.
The Bottom Line
You learn how to frame from top, align, and remove legs. The focus is beating spider, lasso, and collar-sleeve structure. You will not get pressure-based half guard smashing here.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Concept-first passers
Skip if: You train only no-gi
Tech focus: Guard Passing, Frame Removal, Alignment
Biggest takeaway: Beat frames, not moves
📋 Jump to a section (Click to expand)
What You'll Learn
A four-volume top-game curriculum on framing from top, alignment, and eliminating lasso, spider, and collar-sleeve frames. It is a concept-first answer to modern open guards.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Guard Passing
- Frame Removal
- Alignment
- Spider Guard
- Lasso Guard
- Collar Sleeve
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Conceptual, System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 2 hours and 23 minutes
- Volumes: 4
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I like this as a foundation course for people who struggle with spider and lasso rather than a specific pass list.
Why Mikey Musumeci?
A renowned guard player who also teaches passing through first principles like inside position and frame removal.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Concepts like inside position and counter-pummeling resonate with open-guard passers.
- Clear explanations on when to switch between inside and outside passing.
- Shorter format is easier to digest than his 8-volume sets.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Gi examples dominate several sections.
- Overlap with other passing content if you own similar courses.
- Less drilling than technique collectors might want.
Smart Alternatives
- Fundamentals of Guard Passing: Breaking Their Guard – Wall to Wall – If you want a no-gi-oriented passing starter. (Price: $197.00, 4 vols)
- Power Switch Guard Retention and Genius Back Takes – Budget guard-retention ideas that complement your passing. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Official listing: View Foundations of Passing: Neutralizing The Guard on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.

