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The 17 Best Giancarlo Bodoni Instructionals
I’ve watched every Giancarlo Bodoni instructional on BJJ Fanatics and ranked them based on mat testing and community feedback. Bodoni is a 2x ADCC champion training under John Danaher at New Wave – his instructionals reflect an elite, systems-based approach to no-gi grappling.
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Jump to a pick
- 1. Chest To Back: Behind The Elbows
- 2. Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami
- 3. Forging the Guard: Wrestle Ups
- 4. Chest To Back: In Front of the Elbows (Front Headlocks)
- 5. Leg Lock Defense: Survive And Escape
- 6. Mastering The Foundations of Butterfly Guard
- 7. Efficiently Executing X-Guard
- 8. Chest To Chest: Submissions & Pin Transitions
- 9. Chest To Chest Half-Guard Passing
- 10. Countering Leglocks
- 11. Mastering The Foundations of Half Guard (Bottom)
- 12. Mastering Foundations of the Clamp
- 13. Mastering The Foundations of Closed Guard
- 14. Forging The Guard: De La Riva
- 15. Forging The Guard: Reverse De La Riva
- 16. Essential Connections Bundle
- 17. Forging The Guards Bundle: The De La Riva Guards
- Comparison table
- FAQ
The top picks, up front
2026 editionChest To Back: Behind The Elbows
Giancarlo BodoniThe exact back-take system that won ADCC gold twice. Turtle breakdowns, hook insertion, and RNC finishes.
≈8 h · all levels · no-gi · 8 volumesEfficiently Executing Ashi Garami
Giancarlo BodoniBJJ World’s highest-rated Bodoni instructional. A control-first approach to modern leg entanglements.
≈5 h · intermediate+ · no-gi · 8 volumesLeg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape
Giancarlo BodoniBodoni went from getting leglock’d locally to winning ADCC. This is the defense system he built along the way.
≈5 h · all levels · no-gi · 8 partsHow I ranked these
I watch every instructional myself and rank based on: impact on my game and my teammates’ game (does it change how you roll?); community feedback from BJJ World reviews and forums to check blind spots; and value for money, where I rank a set lower if it overlaps with another or has thin sections. Bodoni produces high-quality instructionals at a steady clip. Even #10 on this list is worth studying.
Chest To Back: Behind The Elbows
Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential ConnectionsThe exact back-take chain Bodoni used to submit Lucas Barbosa by RNC at the ADCC 2022 final. A layered system from turtle breakdown to hook insertion to strangles, with strong anti-escape sequences.
What it covers
Bodoni calls the back mount “behind the elbows” – meaning your chest is glued to their back with your arms positioned behind their elbows, where they have no leverage to escape. The instructional starts with basic positional control, then covers turtle breakdowns, hook insertion, how to stay on the back when opponents stand up, and wrestling-based moves like Nelsons, cross-body rides, and twisters to get them back down. The “see-the-back-take-the-back” principle runs through every volume.
The final two volumes focus on finishing: hand strangles (RNC, short choke, arm-in choke) and leg strangles from the back. Every technique builds on the “connection” principle that runs through the entire Essential Connections series.
Why it stands out
- This is the system that won two ADCC titles – not theoretical, proven against the best in the world
- Covers the full chain: turtle breakdown to hooks to back retention to finishing, with strong anti-escape layers throughout
- Bodoni submitted 3 of 4 opponents at ADCC 2022 using these exact sequences, zero points scored against him
The Essential Connections bundle is a progressive, systematic organization focused on chest connection principles.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8.5/10 bundle rating)
At 8 hours, this is a serious time commitment. Gordon Ryan’s “Systematically Attacking the Back” covers similar ground with arguably deeper finishing detail and more concise delivery. If you only want turtle attacks, Danaher’s turtle module from the Go Further Faster series is shorter.
Anyone who wants a reliable, competition-tested path from turtle/scrambles to the back and RNC.
You want a quick, condensed back attack module. 8 hours is a lot.
Front Headlocks – front headlock entries that feed directly into back takes.
Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami
Giancarlo Bodoni · StandaloneBJJ World gave this a perfect 10/10 rating. A control-first approach to modern leg entanglements that emphasizes sweeps as viable alternatives to submissions – not just heel hook finishing.
What it covers
Eight volumes covering the full ashi garami game: Part 1 tackles kuzushi (off-balancing) mechanics, Part 2 tests the connection to see if you have a real position or are about to lose it, Part 3 covers sweeping from ashi (ankle pick sweeps, misdirection sweeps, tripod and double shin sweeps), Part 4 introduces the butterfly ashi position – called “the most creative and innovative aspect” by BJJ World reviewer Ognen Dzabirski, featuring leg switches and unique sweep setups, Part 5 counters to top maneuvers, Part 6 attacks ashi garami from the top, Part 7 deals with common defenses including transitioning between ashi positions and choosing between linear vs. twisting submissions, and Part 8 covers baiting tactics, position transitions, and knee bar demonstrations.
The emphasis on sweeps is what separates this from most leg lock instructionals. Bodoni treats ashi garami as a full positional system, not just a submission setup.
Why it stands out
- Perfect 10/10 rating from BJJ World (Ognen Dzabirski) – his highest-rated Bodoni instructional
- Emphasizes control and sweeps over pure submission hunting, making it safer for training partners
- Covers ashi garami from both top and bottom, including defensive counters to opponent attacks
One of the best Ashi Garami instructionals I have ever seen.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (10/10)
Danaher’s “Enter The System: Leg Locks” remains the gold standard reference at 10+ hours of encyclopedic coverage. Craig Jones’ “Battle Tested Leg Locks” offers a more condensed, competition-focused alternative. Lachlan Giles’ “Leg Lock Anthology” covers both offense and defense in one set, which Bodoni splits across two instructionals. Also, this requires solid positional understanding – true beginners should start with Leg Lock Defense or Mikey Musumeci’s “Ashi Garami Fundamentals” first.
Intermediate no-gi players who want to add structured leg attacks without drowning in theory.
You are already a dedicated leg-lock specialist seeking edge-case details (go Danaher instead).
Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape – learn to attack and defend the same positions.
Forging the Guard: Wrestle Ups
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardLow-effort wrestle-ups from butterfly, DLR/RDLR, and half-butterfly that feed directly into Bodoni’s front headlock and back-take chains. This is how modern no-gi competitors score points from guard.
What it covers
Eight volumes covering wrestle-ups from every common guard configuration: seated vs. kneeling opponents, standing opponents, and supine wrestling. Techniques include double legs from seated guard, 2-on-1 grip setups with Te Guruma and snapdown entries, arm drags with kouchi gari trips and de ashi barai foot sweeps, single leg variations, ankle picks, cradle entries from whizzer counters, elevated doubles from overhook control, kani basami (scissor takedowns), tight waist rides from supine position, and ashi garami integration with leg lock threats across all positions.
The key insight is that these are “lazy wrestling moves” – not explosive takedowns, but efficient, leverage-based stand-ups that BJJ guard players can use without being actual wrestlers.
Why it stands out
- Connects directly to Bodoni’s proven competition formula: wrestle up, then front headlock or back take
- Covers seated vs. kneeling, standing, and supine positions – not just one scenario
- Crystal-clear finishing mechanics after the stand-up, which is the missing link in most wrestle-up content
Lazy wrestling moves that help guard-bound BJJ grapplers get sweeps in a way that most people don’t expect.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8.5/10)
Wrestle-ups are trending right now and several competitors have covered this topic. Jon Thomas covers similar ground for free on YouTube, and Andrew Wiltse integrates wrestle-up content into his guard instructionals. BJJ World reviewer Ognen Dzabirski also noted limited focus on pinning mechanics post-takedown, so pair with the Pins & Subs set if you need finishing.
No-gi players who struggle to finish sweeps without standing up, and anyone building a modern ADCC-style guard game.
Your ruleset forbids stand-ups from guard, or you already have a strong wrestling background.
Front Headlocks – head snaps and guillotines when opponents sprawl on your wrestle-up.
Chest To Back: In Front of the Elbows (Front Headlocks)
Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential ConnectionsFront headlock to back take is one of Bodoni’s signature chains. His two ADCC title runs showcase exactly how valuable this pathway is in modern no-gi.
What it covers
Standing and ground front-headlock control: snap-downs, drag-downs, standing trips and takedowns, guillotines, anacondas, and transitions to rear mount. The emphasis is on hand-fight discipline – keeping the headlock when opponents fight your grips. Volumes progress from entries (standing and ground) to control (maintaining the position through resistance) to finishes (chokes and back takes).
Why it stands out
- Front headlock to back take is Bodoni’s signature – proven across two ADCC title runs
- Actionable, competition-ready sequences rather than scattered techniques
- Covers both standing and ground front headlock entries
The bundle is a progressive, systematic organization… Bodoni keeps a strong focus on the chest connection principles throughout.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World
Very specialized. If you don’t snap heads or attack the front headlock, much of this won’t apply. At 7 hours, it’s long for a single position. Ryan Hall’s front headlock set is more concise, and Gordon Ryan released his own front headlock instructional in 2024 with arguably deeper finishing detail. Danaher’s “Front Headlocks” module from Go Further Faster takes a more encyclopedic approach.
Grapplers who want a robust front headlock they can use to finish or take the back in no-gi.
You never attack the head, or you only want pure guard-bottom material.
Behind The Elbows – finish the cycle: front headlock to back, then RNC.
Leg Lock Defense: Survive And Escape
Giancarlo Bodoni · StandaloneBodoni went from getting heel-hooked at local competitions to winning ADCC. This is the defense system he built under Danaher that transformed his biggest weakness into a strength.
What it covers
Understanding attacker goals, threat assessment, lines of defense, safe pummeling mechanics, and layered escapes across cross ashi/saddle, outside ashi, and 50/50. Covers defenses against heel hooks, kneebars, toe holds, and achilles locks. Designed to keep you training safely while you build your overall game.
The focus is on proactive defense that transitions into counterattacks, not just surviving until time runs out.
Why it stands out
- Authentic: Danaher said Bodoni’s leg locks went from his “nemesis” to “a strong point” within a year
- Proactive defense framework: understand the attacker’s goals to anticipate and counter
- Immediately applicable in no-gi; gi players benefit from the same pummeling principles
A lot of people that get injured in Heel Hooks tend to get injured because they don’t know the position. They freak out, and then they try to twist and turn and spin out in the wrong way.
Giancarlo Bodoni (BJJEE, Feb 2024)
Defense only. If you want offense too, you need to buy Ashi Garami separately. Lachlan Giles’ “Leg Lock Anthology” covers both offense and defense in one package. Gordon Ryan’s three-part “Leg Lock Defense” series is more comprehensive, spreading the material across three dedicated sets vs. Bodoni’s single volume. Also, beginners who have never played ashi garami may want a basic positional overview first.
Anyone being tapped by heel hooks or kneebars and needing a structured defense system.
You already have ironclad leg lock defense and want only obscure positions.
Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami – understand both sides of the exchange.
Mastering The Foundations of Butterfly Guard
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardA practical, drill-heavy butterfly guard set that bridges theory to live timing. Addresses why butterfly “dies” in sparring and gives you the troubleshooting steps to fix it.
What it covers
Why butterfly guard fails against pressure passers and how to fix it with timing drills and off-balance sequences. Covers links to X-guard entries, single-leg wrestle-ups, and butterfly-to-back transitions. Includes defenses against bodylock passes that shut down most butterfly players. Works in the gi with collar drags and sleeve control variants.
Why it stands out
- Bridges theory to live timing with specific troubleshooting for common shut-downs
- Wrestle-up integrations make butterfly guard scoreable in competition rounds
- Anti-bodylock pass defense, which most butterfly sets ignore
Everyone is crazy about wrestle ups these days and Giancarlo takes care of that… once and for all defining a place for wrestle ups in the BJJ guard.
BJJ World review of the Forging The Guard series
Less detailed than Marcelo Garcia’s butterfly material, which remains the gold standard for butterfly guard depth. If you already have a mature butterfly/X game and want edge-case details, this adds moderate value rather than transformative value.
Beginners and intermediates building a seated guard that funnels to back takes and leg entries.
You already have a mature butterfly/X game and want edge-case details.
Wrestle Ups – turn off-balances into finishes.
Efficiently Executing X-Guard
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardA foundation-focused X-guard that connects to leg entanglements and crab rides. BJJ World rated it 9.5/10 for making X-guard relevant in modern no-gi.
What it covers
Four focused parts: Part 1 covers kuzushi (off-balancing) from X-guard, Part 2 teaches sweeping (directional sweeping, leg spinning, knee-to-mat transitions, and 50/50 guard entries), Part 3 introduces reverse X-guard with entries, troubleshooting, off-balancing solutions, and leg lock applications, and Part 4 connects X-guard to crab rides and ashi garami entries.
The 50/50 guard transitions are well covered, and the crab ride to back attack chain is a highlight.
Why it stands out
- BJJ World rated it 9.5/10 – one of Bodoni’s highest-rated individual sets
- Clean integration with leg entries and wrestle-ups makes X-guard relevant in current no-gi meta
- Crab ride to back attack chain is a standout section
Really does teach you how to become effective at playing this very powerful, but equally risky position.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (9.5/10)
At 2.5 hours, this is short compared to other X-guard resources. Lachlan Giles covers X/SLX more comprehensively and includes single-leg X in his set. Marcelo Garcia remains the gold standard for X-guard depth, though his material is older. If you want exhaustive X-guard detail, Bodoni gives you a strong modern introduction but not the final word.
Players who like seated-guard chains and want X-guard to flow into leg entries and back takes.
You rarely stand opponents or attack legs from guard.
Butterfly Guard – X-guard is the natural extension of butterfly.
Chest To Chest: Submissions & Pin Transitions
Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential ConnectionsSolves the classic problem: you get to mount or side control and then lose it. Bodoni’s chest-to-chest pinning system keeps you connected through hip escapes and kipping attempts.
What it covers
Chest-to-chest pinning, transitions, and submissions from side control, north-south, and mount. Covers armbars, kimuras, guillotines, arm triangle variations, and triangle choke setups. The emphasis is on maintaining connection so opponents cannot hip-escape or kip out.
When opponents turtle from pins, you flow directly into the back-take system from the Behind The Elbows set – the two connect by design.
Why it stands out
- Directly addresses the “I get to dominant positions but lose them” problem
- Submissions from pins (arm triangles, kimuras, guillotines) are practical and high-percentage
- Designed to connect with the back-take system when opponents turtle from pins
The Essential Connections bundle teaches why chest connections matter, how to set them up, hold them, and finish.
BJJ World review of the bundle
Purely top-focused. If you want a dedicated passing system to actually reach these positions, start with the Half Guard Passing set. For a more comprehensive pinning system, Craig Jones’ Power Ride covers unorthodox rides (leg rides, wrist rides) that go beyond traditional pins.
Intermediates who reach dominant positions but struggle to maintain them and finish.
You need a passing system first – this assumes you can already get to side control.
Half Guard Passing – force half guard and connect into stable pins.
Chest To Chest Half-Guard Passing
Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential ConnectionsA step-by-step passer’s roadmap that teaches you to impose the pass rather than react. Strong troubleshooting for common half-guard frames and underhooks.
What it covers
Forcing half guard, establishing chest-to-chest, and finishing passes through common counters. Covers crossface and chin strap techniques, dealing with underhooks, and hip/shoulder control mechanics. The system is designed to work with the pins and submissions set – once you pass, you flow into chest-to-chest control.
Why it stands out
- Teaches you to impose your passing game rather than react to the guard player
- Thorough troubleshooting for common half-guard frames and underhooks
- Connects directly into the Pins & Submissions set once you complete the pass
An honest review. I’m a fan of Giancarlo and the way he teaches… the layout was very good, putting out clear instruction at every turn.
Reddit reviewer, r/bjj (dedicated HG Passing review)
Narrowly focused on half-guard only. Gordon Ryan’s “Passing The Guard” series covers far more passing variations (toreando, leg drag, body lock, etc.). Jason Rau’s “Systematic Guard Passing” offers a more concise all-purpose alternative. If you face players who never concede half guard, this becomes less relevant.
Intermediate passers who want a structured plan for forcing and completing half-guard passes.
You already play a deep body-lock passing system and want only edge cases.
Pins & Submissions – connect passes into stable control and finishes.
Countering Leglocks
Giancarlo Bodoni · StandaloneGoes beyond defense into proactive counter-attacking from ashi positions. The ashi-to-back conversions are huge for scoring under ADCC and IBJJF no-gi rules.
What it covers
Counter-attacking from outside ashi, cross ashi (saddle), 50/50, and backside positions. Includes ashi-to-back transitions, which are some of the highest-value scoring sequences in modern no-gi competition. This is the offensive follow-up to Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape.
Why it stands out
- Goes beyond pure defense into proactive counters and ashi-to-back conversions
- Ashi-to-back transitions mirror how Bodoni wins big matches at ADCC
- Aligns with Bodoni’s own career arc from leg lock victim to leg lock specialist
Displayed strong wrestling, excellent leg lock defense and counter offense… a dangerous closed guard, great back takes, and impressive finishing ability.
Living As a Grappler analysis of Bodoni’s game
Requires understanding of basic leg lock positions first – this is not a beginner set. If you haven’t studied the defensive side, start with Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape. Danaher’s systematic approach to the same material is more methodical.
Intermediate-to-advanced no-gi players who face leg-lockers regularly and want to turn defense into offense.
You haven’t built basic leg lock survival mechanics yet.
Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape – build your defense foundation first.
Mastering The Foundations of Half Guard (Bottom)
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardA clear half-guard starter that covers knee shield, half butterfly, underhook, and deep half. Rated 8/10 by BJJ World, though the deep half section is thin at just 10 minutes.
What it covers
Five parts: Half Guard Criteria (1 hour covering guard recovery and positioning concepts), Knee Shield Half Guard (1 hour – clamping, triangle setups, scoop grip sweeps), Half Butterfly (arm drag setups, overhead sweeping, leg lock progressions, X-guard transitions), Underhook Half Guard (~30 minutes – arm positioning, roll-through counters, attacking trilemma), and Deep Half (~10 minutes – waiter sweep variations, X-guard transitions). The brevity of Parts 4 and 5 is notable.
Why it stands out
- Broad coverage of multiple half-guard variations in one set
- Knee shield section (1 hour) is the strongest part, with clear clamping and sweep mechanics
- Prioritizes control criteria and recovery sequences before attacks
More of a general instructional than a resource for building a half guard game.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8/10)
The deep half section is only 10 minutes – barely covered. If deep half is your game, Lucas Leite’s “Coyote Half Guard” goes far deeper as a single-system approach, and Paul Schreiner’s “Connected Reaction: Half Guard” is more thorough for gi players. Lachlan Giles’ no-gi “Half Guard Anthology” is the comprehensive alternative. Ognen Dzabirski at BJJ World noted this is more of a general overview than a position-building resource.
Intermediate players who want structure and live-ready recoveries across multiple half-guard variations.
You want an exhaustive half-guard encyclopedia (get Lachlan Giles’ Half Guard Anthology instead).
Half Guard Passing – understand the top-bottom fight from both sides.
Mastering Foundations of the Clamp
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardAn underused guard position that creates simple, nasty dilemmas. High triangle/omoplata payoff with a surprise factor that many training rooms under-defend.
What it covers
Clamp control from seated and closed-guard style entries with tight triangle/omoplata trees. The clamp position traps the opponent’s arm and head together, creating a constant submission threat that forces reactions you can predict and exploit.
Why it stands out
- Surprise factor – the clamp is under-defended in most training rooms
- Simple dilemmas: every escape from the clamp feeds into another attack
- Good crossover to gi with collar tie and sleeve-pin variations
Bodoni keeps coming in steady with high quality instructionals, at similar frequency to Ryan’s and Danaher’s.
BJJ World observation on Bodoni’s output
Niche guard that most people won’t build their entire game around. If you need fundamental seated-guard mechanics first, start with butterfly guard. The clamp works best as an add-on to an existing guard system, not a standalone.
Players who want a unique attacking hub with high triangle/omoplata payoff.
You need fundamental seated-guard mechanics first.
Closed Guard – clamp dovetails with classic closed-guard attacks.
Mastering The Foundations of Closed Guard
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardA fundamentals set with modern grip-fighting detail. Makes closed guard proactive instead of “hold and hope.”
What it covers
Structured posture breaking, angles, and chains (armbar/triangle/omoplata), with tips for both no-gi and gi (cross-collar setups). System-based approach rather than technique lists. Bodoni showed dangerous closed guard work at the 2024 ADCC final against Jacob Rodriguez, using sweeps and submission attempts to secure victory.
Why it stands out
- System-based approach: posture break, angle, chain – not a list of random techniques
- Bodoni used closed guard at the 2024 ADCC final, proving it works at elite level
- Great starter set for newer grapplers wanting a coherent plan
Bodoni showcased his underrated closed guard through sweeps and submission attempts to secure victory by points in overtime.
ONE Championship analysis of Bodoni’s 2024 ADCC final
Closed guard has many excellent existing resources. Roger Gracie’s closed guard instructional remains the gold standard from the most dominant closed guard player ever. Danaher’s closed guard set is encyclopedic in scope. Bodoni is primarily known as a top player, not a closed guard specialist, which limits the credibility advantage here.
Beginners and intermediates who want a coherent closed-guard plan for both gi and no-gi.
You only train no-gi and never close your guard, or you already have a mature closed guard system.
Butterfly Guard – open up to seated guards once opponents stand.
Forging The Guard: De La Riva
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardDLR adapted for modern no-gi with clear connections to ashi garami entries, X-guard transitions, and K-guard bolos. Rated 8/10 by BJJ World.
What it covers
DLR leg positioning, weight shifts, and off-balances with options to wrestle up or enter legs. Four volumes covering: (1) Pummeling – foot positioning and control fundamentals, (2) Ashi Exposure – sweeps and leg lock entries from DLR, (3) K Guard Bolos – inversions with leg lock threats, and (4) Connections & FAQs – system integration and positioning questions. Techniques include reverse reaps, kani basami entries, backside 50/50, and waiter sweep variations. Stronger in the gi with pant and sleeve grips, but usable no-gi with ankle/knee controls.
Why it stands out
- Content from a 2x ADCC champion who has tested everything at the highest level
- Connects DLR to modern leg entry systems instead of treating it as a standalone position
- Covers K-guard bolos and kani basami entries – advanced transitions most DLR sets skip
Good for beginners, ideal for intermediate grapplers, and useful for experts, given that the instruction comes from the reigning ADCC champion.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8/10)
DLR is fundamentally stronger in the gi. Dedicated no-gi players get less value here compared to butterfly or X-guard. Also, at 2+ hours, coverage is broader than deep.
Gi-primary players who want Bodoni’s systematic take on DLR with modern leg entry connections.
You rarely play with pant or collar grips, or you train primarily no-gi.
Reverse De La Riva – cover both sides of the DLR tree.
Forging The Guard: Reverse De La Riva
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardRDLR as a transition hub to X-guard, singles, and backside entries. Bodoni treats it as a connector, not a camping position – which fits modern scoring.
What it covers
No-gi-friendly RDLR using knee posts and shin wedges to expose singles, X-guard entries, or backside 50/50. Treats RDLR as a transition hub rather than a place to camp, which fits modern scoring rulesets that penalize guard stalling.
Why it stands out
- Treats RDLR as a transition hub, not a resting position
- No-gi friendly with knee posts and shin wedges rather than relying on gi grips
- Connects naturally to X-guard and leg entry systems
Bodoni’s works keep coming in steady with high quality instructionals.
BJJ World
Very specialized. Needs to be combined with the standard DLR set for full value. If you don’t play shin-on-shin or knee posting games, the entry points won’t be available.
Open-guard tinkerers seeking more entries to X-guard and leg entanglements.
You don’t play shin-on-shin or knee posting games.
De La Riva – round out both DLR variants.
Essential Connections Bundle
Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential ConnectionsBest value if you want Bodoni’s complete top-game and back-attack system in one purchase. 20+ hours across 28 volumes covering back takes, front headlocks, passing, and pins.
What it covers
Combines all four Essential Connections instructionals: Behind The Elbows (~8h), Front Headlocks (~7h), Half Guard Passing (~5h), and Submissions & Pin Transitions (~6h). This is the cohesive, modern no-gi stack Bodoni used while winning ADCC -88kg twice.
Why it stands out
- Cheaper than buying all four separately – significant savings on 20+ hours of content
- Mirrors the complete competition stack that won two ADCC titles
- Everything connects: front headlock feeds back takes, passes feed pins, pins feed back takes
Contains four encyclopedic instructionals focusing on chest to chest and chest to back positions.
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8.5/10)
20+ hours is a massive time commitment. Most people would be better served buying just Behind The Elbows (#1) to test Bodoni’s teaching style before committing to the full bundle.
Serious learners who prefer a full system over isolated positions and want the price savings.
You want a single, short set to test the waters. Buy Behind The Elbows standalone first.
Wrestle Ups – adds high-percentage reversals that feed directly into the back-take system.
Forging The Guards Bundle: The De La Riva Guards
Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The GuardOnly buy this if DLR is central to your (mostly gi) game. Combines both DLR and RDLR for a price discount.
What it covers
Both DLR and RDLR instructionals in one purchase. Useful if you are building a gi-first open-guard specialty and want both standard and reverse DLR with Bodoni’s systematic approach.
Why it stands out
- Savings versus buying both DLR sets separately
- Complete DLR/RDLR system from a 2x ADCC champion
- Connects to leg entry systems and X-guard transitions
The instruction comes from the reigning ADCC champion.
BJJ World
Primarily gi-focused. No-gi players get limited value from DLR, and at an estimated 5 combined hours, depth per position is modest. Mikey Musumeci’s DLR content goes deeper for gi specialists.
Gi-focused open-guard players committed to building a DLR/RDLR system.
You train mostly no-gi.
Butterfly Guard – blend seated guards when DLR grips aren’t available.
All picks, side by side
Comparison tableSwipe sideways for details · the price column stays pinned →
| # | Instructional | Instructor | Runtime | Level | Format | Category | Tier | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chest To Back: Behind The Elbows | Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential Connections | ~8 hours across 8 volumes | All levels | No-gi (concepts apply to gi) | Back-take system | $$ | Check price → |
| 2 | Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami | Giancarlo Bodoni · Standalone | ~5 hours across 8 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Leg lock offense | $$ | Check price → |
| 3 | Forging the Guard: Wrestle Ups | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | 5+ hours across 8 volumes | Intermediate | No-gi | Wrestle-ups for guard players | $$ | Check price → |
| 4 | Chest To Back: In Front of the Elbows (Front Headlocks) | Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential Connections | ~7 hours across 8 volumes | Intermediate | No-gi (gi crossover with collar snaps) | Front headlock system | $$ | Check price → |
| 5 | Leg Lock Defense: Survive And Escape | Giancarlo Bodoni · Standalone | ~5 hours across 8 parts | All levels | No-gi (gi players benefit too) | Leg lock defense | $$ | Check price → |
| 6 | Mastering The Foundations of Butterfly Guard | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~4 hours (estimated) | Beginner to intermediate | No-gi (gi crossover with collar drags) | Butterfly guard foundations | $$ | Check price → |
| 7 | Efficiently Executing X-Guard | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~2.5 hours across 4 parts | Intermediate | No-gi (gi crossover with pant grips) | X-guard foundations | $ | Check price → |
| 8 | Chest To Chest: Submissions & Pin Transitions | Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential Connections | ~6 hours across 6 volumes | Intermediate | No-gi (gi lapel upgrades covered) | Top pins & submissions | $$ | Check price → |
| 9 | Chest To Chest Half-Guard Passing | Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential Connections | ~5 hours across 6 volumes | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi (gi cross-collar grip layer) | Half-guard passing | $$ | Check price → |
| 10 | Countering Leglocks | Giancarlo Bodoni · Standalone | ~5 hours (estimated) | Intermediate to advanced | No-gi | Leg lock counters | $$ | Check price → |
| 11 | Mastering The Foundations of Half Guard (Bottom) | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~4 hours across 5 parts | Intermediate | No-gi (gi lapel anchors noted) | Half guard foundations | $$ | Check price → |
| 12 | Mastering Foundations of the Clamp | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~4 hours (estimated) | All levels | No-gi (gi collar tie and sleeve-pin variants) | For the clamp guard | $$ | Check price → |
| 13 | Mastering The Foundations of Closed Guard | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~4 hours across 4 parts (estimated) | Beginner to intermediate | Gi & no-gi | Closed guard foundations | $$ | Check price → |
| 14 | Forging The Guard: De La Riva | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | 2+ hours | Intermediate | Gi & no-gi | De la riva for gi players | $ | Check price → |
| 15 | Forging The Guard: Reverse De La Riva | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~2-3 hours (estimated) | Intermediate to advanced | Gi & no-gi | Reverse de la riva | $ | Check price → |
| 16 | Essential Connections Bundle | Giancarlo Bodoni · Essential Connections | 20+ hours across 28 volumes (4 instructionals) | All levels | No-gi | Overall value (bundle) | $$$ | Check price → |
| 17 | Forging The Guards Bundle: The De La Riva Guards | Giancarlo Bodoni · Forging The Guard | ~5 hours (combined estimated) | Intermediate | Gi & no-gi | Dlr bundle for gi specialists | $$ | Check price → |
Who Is Giancarlo Bodoni?
Giancarlo Bodoni (born October 15, 1995, Miami) is a 2x ADCC World Champion at -88kg (2022 and 2024) and one of the most active instructional producers in no-gi grappling. He trains under John Danaher at New Wave Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, TX alongside Gordon Ryan and Garry Tonon.
Bodoni started BJJ at age 12 under Rillion Gracie, earned his brown belt from Lucas Lepri at Alliance in Charlotte, and taught at Bernardo Faria’s academy in Massachusetts before joining New Wave in October 2021. The move transformed his game: Danaher noted that Bodoni’s leg locks went from his biggest weakness to a genuine weapon within a year.
His competition record speaks for itself: at ADCC 2022, he submitted Matheus Diniz, Eoghan O’Flanagan, and Lucas “Hulk” Barbosa (RNC in the final) without a single point scored against him. He repeated at ADCC 2024, and his final against Jacob Rodriguez won “Best Match” of the event. He signed with ONE Championship for submission grappling in December 2024, debuting at ONE 173 Tokyo against Rafael Lovato Jr. (loss by decision, November 2025). At CJI 2 in August 2025, he finished Ronaldo Junior with a rolling juji-gatame armbar.
What Makes Bodoni a Good Instructor
- Systems thinker. Everything connects: his back takes feed from front headlocks, which feed from wrestle-ups, which feed from butterfly guard. Buy two of his sets and they overlap seamlessly.
- Battle-tested content. Unlike some instructors who teach theory, Bodoni has used these exact techniques at ADCC finals against world-class opposition. As he puts it: “My main thing is how can I make my game work on everybody? I should be able to control somebody who keeps a really high volume of attacks, regardless of what their attributes are.” (Grappling Insider)
- Clear teaching style. His instructionals follow a logical progression (kuzushi first, then control, then submissions) that mirrors how the techniques play out in live rolls.
- Inclusive philosophy. Bodoni believes in teaching heel hooks early: “It’s not inherently more dangerous to do a Heel Hook than it is to do a Kimura. The danger comes from lack of control, not the submission itself.” He argues injuries happen because “people freak out and try to twist and spin out in the wrong way just because they don’t have an awareness” (BJJEE, Feb 2024).
His Two Series Explained
His Two Series Explained
Bodoni’s 17 instructionals fall into two main series:
Essential Connections (Top Game + Back Takes)
The “Essential Connections” series covers Bodoni’s A-game: back takes (behind the elbows), front headlocks (in front of the elbows), half-guard passing, and chest-to-chest pins and submissions. This is the system that won him two ADCC titles. Total runtime: 20+ hours across 28 volumes.
Forging The Guard (Bottom Game)
The “Forging The Guard” series covers his guard game from the bottom: butterfly, X-guard, half guard, closed guard, DLR, RDLR, clamp guard, and wrestle-ups. These are solid fundamentals sets, though Bodoni is more known as a top player than a guard specialist.
Standalone Sets
Three instructionals sit outside these series: Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami (his highest-rated set), Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape, and Countering Leglocks. These cover the leg lock game Bodoni rebuilt after joining New Wave. As Bodoni explains: “John is always trying to stay ahead of the curve… whatever people are working on now is stuff that we were working on six months ago” (BJJEE, Sep 2024).
Recommended Combos
- ADCC competition stack: Behind The Elbows + Front Headlocks + Wrestle Ups
- Leg lock package: Ashi Garami + Leg Lock Defense + Countering Leglocks
- Guard builder: Butterfly Guard + X-Guard + Wrestle Ups
Suggested Watch Order
Suggested Watch Order
| Path | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top game / ADCC | Behind Elbows | Front Headlocks | Pins & Subs | HG Passing |
| Leg locks | LL Defense | Ashi Garami | Countering LL | — |
| Guard player | Butterfly | Wrestle Ups | X-Guard | Half Guard |
Best Bodoni Instructional by Goal
Best Bodoni Instructional by Goal
| Goal | Best Pick | Also Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Back takes | Chest To Back: Behind Elbows | Front Headlocks |
| Top control & pins | Chest To Chest: Pins | Half Guard Passing |
| Leg lock offense | Ashi Garami | Countering Leglocks |
| Leg lock defense | Survive & Escape | — |
| Guard passing | Chest To Chest HG Passing | Pins & Subs |
| Butterfly guard | Butterfly Guard | Wrestle Ups |
| Wrestle-ups / sweeps | Wrestle Ups | Butterfly Guard |
| Open guard (gi) | De La Riva | Reverse DLR |
| Closed guard | Closed Guard | Clamp Guard |
| Best overall value | Essential Connections Bundle | Behind Elbows (standalone) |
Pricing & Deals
Bodoni’s instructionals are available on BJJ Fanatics. Prices fluctuate with sales, so check the daily deals page for current discounts.
| Title | Volumes | Runtime | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest To Back: Behind Elbows | 8 | ~8h | Essential Connections |
| Front Headlocks | 8 | ~7h | Essential Connections |
| Pins & Submissions | 6 | ~6h | Essential Connections |
| Half Guard Passing | 6 | ~5h | Essential Connections |
| Essential Connections Bundle | 28 | 20+h | Bundle |
| Ashi Garami | 8 | ~5h | Standalone |
| Leg Lock Defense | 8 | ~5h | Standalone |
| Countering Leglocks | est. 6-8 | ~5h | Standalone |
| Wrestle Ups | 8 | 5+h | Forging The Guard |
| Butterfly Guard | est. 4-6 | ~4h | Forging The Guard |
| X-Guard | 4 | ~2.5h | Forging The Guard |
| Half Guard (Bottom) | 5 | ~4h | Forging The Guard |
| Closed Guard | 4 | ~4h | Forging The Guard |
| Clamp Guard | est. 4-6 | ~4h | Forging The Guard |
| De La Riva | est. 4 | 2+h | Forging The Guard |
| Reverse De La Riva | est. 4 | ~2-3h | Forging The Guard |
| DLR Bundle | est. 8 | ~5h | Bundle |
Tip: BJJ Fanatics runs frequent sales (up to 50% off). Sign up for their email list to get notified. The Essential Connections Bundle is the best deal if you want Bodoni’s full top-game system.
Free Bodoni Content
Before committing to a paid instructional, check out these free resources:
- BJJ Fanatics free techniques: Bodoni’s BJJ Fanatics page regularly features free technique clips from his instructionals.
- FloGrappling Fix My Game: Bodoni did an episode covering guillotines and the “bolt cutter” footlock.
- ADCC match footage: Watch his 2022 and 2024 ADCC runs on YouTube to see the Essential Connections system in action.
- Living As a Grappler (Substack): In-depth analysis of Bodoni’s game at CJI with technique breakdowns.
Glossary
- Behind the elbows: Bodoni’s term for having your chest glued to the opponent’s back with arms behind their elbows, removing their leverage to escape.
- In front of the elbows: Front headlock position – chest to the opponent’s upper back with your arms controlling in front of their elbows.
- Chest-to-chest: A pinning principle where you maintain constant torso contact during passes and pins, making it harder for opponents to create frames.
- Kuzushi: Japanese for off-balancing. Bodoni organizes many instructionals around kuzushi as the first step before any technique.
- Ashi garami: Leg entanglement positions (outside ashi, cross ashi/saddle, 50/50, backside 50/50) used for leg lock attacks and sweeps.
- Crab ride: A back-attack position where you hook the opponent’s legs from behind while controlling their upper body, used to transition to full back control.
- Wrestle-up: Standing up from a seated guard position using wrestling-based techniques (singles, doubles, ankle picks) instead of traditional BJJ sweeps.
- New Wave Jiu-Jitsu: The team founded by John Danaher and Gordon Ryan in Austin, TX. Bodoni has trained there since October 2021.
FAQ
What is Giancarlo Bodoni’s best instructional?
Based on BJJ World’s ratings and mat testing, Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami (10/10) is his highest-rated individual set. For his signature competition system, Chest To Back: Behind The Elbows covers the back-take chain that won him two ADCC titles.
Is the Essential Connections Bundle worth it?
Yes, if you want Bodoni’s complete top-game and back-attack system. The bundle includes 20+ hours across 4 instructionals at a discount versus buying separately. If you’re unsure, start with Behind The Elbows standalone to test his teaching style.
Are Bodoni’s instructionals good for beginners?
Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape and the Forging The Guard series (butterfly, closed guard, half guard) are beginner-friendly. The Essential Connections series and Ashi Garami set are better suited for intermediate and above.
What team does Giancarlo Bodoni train with?
Bodoni trains at New Wave Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, TX under John Danaher alongside Gordon Ryan. He is NOT on B-Team (a common confusion since both teams are based in Austin). He previously trained at Alliance under Lucas Lepri.
How does Bodoni compare to Danaher as an instructor?
Danaher is more encyclopedic and systematic, covering every possible variation. Bodoni is more practical and concise – he teaches what he actually uses in competition. If you want to understand the full theory, go Danaher. If you want competition-ready chains you can use next week, go Bodoni. As Bodoni himself says: “Every move that he teaches, it seems like he has an answer for every question… he’s like an encyclopedia” (BJJEE, Jan 2024).
Does Bodoni teach gi or no-gi?
Most of his instructionals are no-gi focused, reflecting his ADCC competition style. The Forging The Guard series and closed guard set include gi adaptations (collar grips, pant grips). The Essential Connections series and leg lock sets are purely no-gi.
What is the difference between Essential Connections and Forging The Guard?
Essential Connections covers his top game: back takes, front headlocks, passing, and pins. Forging The Guard covers his bottom game: butterfly, X-guard, half guard, closed guard, DLR, and wrestle-ups. His standalone leg lock sets (Ashi Garami, Leg Lock Defense, Countering Leglocks) sit outside both series.
Still deciding which Bodoni instructional to buy?
If you want his proven competition system, start with Chest To Back: Behind The Elbows. For the highest-rated leg lock set, get Efficiently Executing Ashi Garami. Getting heel-hooked in training? Leg Lock Defense: Survive & Escape is the fix. Want the full top game in one purchase at a discount? The Essential Connections Bundle.