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All 33 Gordon Ryan Instructionals Ranked: My 6 Must-Watch Picks
I’ve watched all 33 Gordon Ryan instructionals front to back, 200+ hours, purple belt to black belt. Here are the ones worth your money, which to skip, and where to start.
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes the ranking – I review everything on the mat first.
Jump to a pick
- 1. Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0)
- 2. They Shall Not Pass (Guard Retention)
- 3. Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes
- 4. Systematically Attacking The Guard (2.0)
- 5. Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Seated)
- 6. Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Mount
- 7. Systematically Attacking The Back
- 8. Systematically Attacking The Legs (2023)
- 9. Systematically Attacking The Arm Bar (2023)
- 10. Systematically Attacking The Guard 3.0: Inside Camping (2025)
- 11. Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Supine)
- 12. Systematically Attacking The Front Headlock (2024)
- 13. Systematically Attacking The Guillotine (2024)
- 14. Systematically Attacking The Crucifix (2024)
- 15. Systematically Attacking From Half Guard
- 16. Systematically Attacking The Turtle Position
- 17. Systematically Attacking The Guard: Body Lock Study
- 18. Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Side Control & North South
- 19. Pillars of Defense: Strangle Escapes
- 20. Pillars of Defense: Back Escapes
- 21. Pillars of Defense: Upper Body Joint Lock Escapes
- 22. Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Upper Body Takedowns
- 23. Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Beginners Guide
- 24. Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Lower Body Takedowns
- 25. Systematically Attacking The Half Guard and Scrimmaging: Whizzer vs Underhook
- 26. Pillars of Defense: Leg Lock Escapes & Counter Locks
- 27. Pillars of Defense: Leg Locks to Guard Passing / Back Takes
- 28. Systematically Attacking From Closed Guard
- 29. High Percentage Gi Passes
- 30. ADCC 2022 Breakdown (My Evolution Your Revolution)
- 31. ADCC 2019 & 2017 Breakdowns
- 32. The Sport of Kings (Mindset)
- 33. Getting Swole As A Grappler
- Comparison table
- FAQ
The top picks, up front
2026 editionSystematically Attacking The Guard (1.0)
Gordon RyanThe guard passing bible. Years on, still the community’s #1 pick.
≈10h 39m · all levels · no-gi · $$$They Shall Not Pass (Guard Retention)
Gordon RyanGoes way beyond another retention set; the one everyone should own.
≈8h 3m · all levels · no-gi · $$$Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes
Gordon RyanThe clearest-structured Gordon set; turns survival into reversal.
≈7h 56m · all levels · no-gi · $$$I’ve watched every Gordon Ryan instructional front to back. Over 200 hours of content, starting as a purple belt, now a black belt. I ranked all 33 based on what actually improved my game and what the community consistently recommends.
Gordon Ryan is widely considered the greatest no-gi grappler of all time. Trained by John Danaher from his teens, he’s won ADCC multiple times in both his weight class and the absolute division. His catalog on BJJ Fanatics is the largest of any single athlete: 30+ releases covering every major position in grappling.
What makes his sets stand out is the systematic approach: establish a framework, show every variation methodically, then explain how opponents counter and how you re-counter. It’s encyclopedic. The downside is that most sets run 8-11 hours, so you’re getting a complete system, not a quick-tip video.
Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0)
Gordon RyanThe guard passing bible. Gordon’s framework forces opponents into a trilemma: every defensive choice leads to a pass or submission. Years later, it’s still the community’s #1 pick.
What it covers
Eight volumes that build a complete passing system. Vol 1 covers closed guard defeats, rubber guard solutions, and the split squat launching position. Vol 2 destroys knee shield with ~10 backstep passing variations and the cross shoulder post. Vol 3 handles half guard with body lock passes (RGA style), over-under passes (Gordon’s take differs from Bernardo Faria’s), and deep half/lockdown escapes. Vol 4 addresses half-butterfly with guillotine integration. The final technique volumes cover Z guard, reverse DLR, and lasso. Vols 7-8 are narrated live rolling. The unifying concept is the “trilemma”: every guard defense leads to a different pass or a submission, so the defender always loses.
Why it stands out
- The ‘trilemma’ concept: every guard defense leads to another pass or a submission
- Connects passing to leg locks, back takes, and pins as a unified system
- 10+ hours of pure detail, organized by guard type and passing style
“In technical terms, this DVD is flawless. No issues with sound, video or content organization.”
BJJ World (5/5 rating)
At 10h 39m it demands real commitment, and Joshua Richards (who spent $1,000 on Gordon’s catalog) called the early volumes “disorganized.” The format has been superseded by the tighter structure in Guard 2.0 and 3.0. If you only want half guard passing specifically, Gordon’s standalone Half Guard Passing set covers that slice better in less time.
Anyone who wants to build a complete, systematic guard passing game from the ground up. This is the foundation everything else builds on.
You’re looking for a few quick passing tricks instead of a deep system. This demands study time.
They Shall Not Pass · Cheaper alternative: Junny Ocasio: Connecting No-Gi Guard Passes
They Shall Not Pass (Guard Retention)
Gordon RyanThe guard retention instructional the entire BJJ community recommends. Not just escapes, but a proactive system of layered frames that prevents passes from ever starting.
What it covers
Eight volumes structured by the type of pass you’re defending. Vol 1 establishes the core framework: concave shoulders, inside position control, jaw protection, and the key distinction between loose passes (toreando, etc.) and tight passes (pressure/knee slice). Vol 2 covers ashi garami as a recovery tool when your guard gets halfway passed. Vol 3 defeats the split squat and knee cut. Vol 4 handles toreando with scissor guard and side guard defenses. Vol 5 addresses stacks, body lock passes, and the shin pin. Vol 6 covers half guard retention with butterfly hooks, knee shields, and knee levers. Vols 7-8 are narrated rolling against five different training partners. The central insight: for loose passes, keep opponents in front of your legs; for tight passes, deny head control.
Why it stands out
- Treats guard retention as offense, not just survival
- Organized by pass type, so you know exactly what to study
- Includes narrated live rolling analysis showing concepts in action
- Covers rarely-addressed techniques like shin pin defense
“Goes way beyond just another guard retention instructional, both in terms of material and the amount of information it contains.”
BJJ World review
BJJ World noted this “will make the most sense to people that have really gotten into exploring retention from more than just one direction.” If you’re a complete beginner, Danaher’s The Fastest Way: Unpassable Guard is shorter (4.5 hours) and more practical as a starting point. Gordon’s set is the deep-dive version, and some of the advanced retention concepts (ashi garami as a guard recovery tool, concave shoulder mechanics) assume you already know basic guard positions.
Literally every BJJ practitioner. If you play guard (and you do), you need this.
You’ve somehow never had your guard passed. (Congratulations, you’re not human.)
Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes · Cheaper alternative: Lachlan Giles: Guard Retention Anthology
Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes
Gordon RyanStop panicking on bottom. This turns the worst positions in grappling into your launchpad for attacks. The clearest, most structured defensive set Gordon has made.
What it covers
Systematic escapes from every dominant pin: mount (low mount, high mount, technical mount), side control (standard, kesa gatame, reverse kesa), north-south, and knee-on-belly. Each position gets the same treatment: frame construction, hip escape sequences, bridge-and-roll variations, and direct counter-attacks from the escape. Gordon emphasizes the ‘defensive to offensive cycle’: every escape should put you into an attacking position, not just back to neutral.
Why it stands out
- Transforms the ‘survive’ mindset into a ‘reverse and attack’ mindset
- The clearest instructional structure in Gordon’s entire catalog
- Day-one impact: you can drill these escapes immediately
- Teaches the defender’s hierarchy: what to protect first, second, third
The branching system is complex enough that BJJ Flowcharts sells a $29.90 companion PDF to map the pathways. Danaher’s own Pin Escapes (Go Further Faster) covers similar ground with clearer organization for beginners. Against opponents who just hold position without attacking, some of the defensive-to-offensive cycles don’t trigger. You’ll also need an offensive set to complement this.
Anyone who feels stuck or powerless on bottom, especially white and blue belts. Also the best starting point if you’re new to Gordon’s instructionals.
You literally never get put on bottom (are you competing in a different sport?).
Systematically Attacking The Guard (2.0)
Gordon RyanThe sequel that updates the original passing system for the modern guard meta. Deep focus on dynamic passing: toreandos, high-steps, and movement-based approaches.
What it covers
Eight volumes focused on dynamic/loose passing. The core innovation is the J-Point (Jeopardy Point): the moment where you’ve surpassed the opponent’s hipline and they must react or get passed. Gordon teaches J-Point Camping (maintaining a safe, controlled stance at the J-Point with legs free). Toreando passing is primary (used when opponent’s knees are close to chest, creating side-to-side tension). High-step passing applies when knees separate (step over leg, rotate hips, reverse V-grip on ankle). The “Trilemma” system ensures the passer always has a next action regardless of defense. Also covers flanking passes, grip battles, and grip breaks. Vols 7-8 are narrated rolling.
Why it stands out
- Fills the gaps from 1.0 with modern, dynamic passing techniques
- Excellent toreando and high-step progressions
- More focused and concise than 1.0
“A must to elevate your jiu-jitsu while gaining a different outlook on passing.”
Jiused Life review (2023)
Requires 1.0 as a prerequisite. The tree-like structure uses “leg configurations as the main nodes,” making it repetitive when watched front-to-back. While the BJJ Coach Substack praised loose passing as size-independent, smaller practitioners still prefer the pressure-based approaches from 1.0 or the Body Lock Study. With 3.0 now available, the full 1.0/2.0/3.0 curriculum is a massive time and money investment.
Students who’ve absorbed 1.0 and want to add modern, competition-tested layers to their passing.
You haven’t studied the fundamentals from 1.0 yet. Start there.
Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0) · Cheaper alternative: Junny Ocasio: Connecting No-Gi Guard Passes
Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Seated)
Gordon RyanOften called the single best instructional on BJJ Fanatics. A complete seated guard and butterfly guard system with attacks you can use in your next roll.
What it covers
The definitive guide to fighting from a seated position. Covers butterfly guard fundamentals, shoulder crunch sumi gaeshi (Gordon’s signature technique), ashi garami entries from seated position, double kouchi gari setups, elevations to the back, and systematic grip fighting. Also covers how to recover seated guard when forced flat and how to chain sweeps into immediate top pressure.
Why it stands out
- The shoulder crunch sumi gaeshi alone is worth the price
- Incredible detail on grip fighting and off-balancing from seated
- Immediately applicable techniques you can drill the same day
- One reviewer credited this set with tapping higher belts for the first time
“In a no-gi setting, there’s no way to deal with Gordon Ryan’s seated guard. He will sweep you, take the back, get a leg lock, or trick you into exposing the neck.”
BJJ World review (“perhaps his best work to date”)
Purely focused on the seated/butterfly position. If you primarily play supine guards (DLR, RDLR, K-guard), you’ll need the Supine companion set. Also, at 8 hours, it covers more variations than most people will ever use.
Anyone who wants a dangerous open guard. Essential for modern no-gi.
You’re a committed closed guard player with no interest in open guard.
Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Mount
Gordon RyanTurn mount from a stalling point into a submission factory. Forced reaction chains that end in a tap, every time.
What it covers
Eight volumes covering a systematic mount attack framework. The core innovation is the palm-up cross grip system: targeting the rotator cuff instead of pectoral muscles, using a “finger walk” technique to guide the opponent’s arm upward until their elbow rises above their shoulder line. From there, Gordon teaches arm isolation via double push grip, shifting head across the opponent’s centerline. The system creates dilemmas: if the opponent bridges to avoid isolation, the other arm becomes easier to target. If they strip the grip, they expose the back for a gift wrap finish. S-mount transitions, armbars, triangles, and kimuras from mount. BJJ Coach Substack called it “stupid simple yet transformative.”
Why it stands out
- Solves the common problem of ‘I got mount but can’t finish’
- Forced reaction chains: the opponent’s defense triggers your next attack
- Covers mount maintenance as thoroughly as the submissions
Read the full review of Systematically Attacking the Mount →
“The Side Control and Mount instructionals helped me significantly in finishing from dominant positions.”
Joshua Richards (JoshRichBJJ)
Less community discussion than back attacks or guard passing sets. Some feel you need strong mount maintenance before the offensive content becomes useful. The 16-volume bundle (mount + side control/NS) is an enormous amount of material. If you just want mount submissions, Roger Gracie’s mount material is more concise.
Anyone who gets to mount but struggles to finish. Turns the position from static to dynamic.
You rarely achieve mount. Work on your passing and sweeps first.
Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes · Cheaper alternative: Bernardo Faria: Mount Attack Encyclopedia
Systematically Attacking The Back
Gordon RyanThe blueprint for the most dominant position in grappling. The ‘straightjacket’ strangle system and arm-trapping methods that Gordon uses at ADCC.
What it covers
Eight volumes, roughly eight hours of footage. Part 1 covers body asymmetry and overhook vs underhook side attacking. Part 2 details the high ball ride and countering hook-clearing attempts including the half claw defense. Part 3 addresses head positioning, hook retention, and the ball ride from the underhook side. Part 4 introduces wrestling’s cross body ride with guillotine, hammerlock, and ashi garami transitions. Part 5 covers extensive grip fighting, pummeling, and the ten-finger grip break. Part 6 is the Straight Jacket 2.0 with dilemma attacks (forcing opponents to choose between rear-naked choke, mandible strangle, or garrote choke). Parts 7-8 contain 10 narrated rolls. BJJ World: “back retention details that even Danaher skipped over.”
Why it stands out
- The arm-trapping system for isolating the neck is revolutionary
- Covers back maintenance as thoroughly as the finishes
- One reviewer said this significantly improved their back attacks
“The DDS mantra seems to be reducing relatively complex sequences to the smallest number of important cues possible.”
u/Uchi_Mata on Sherdog (seminar review)
At roughly eight hours, this is one of Gordon’s longer technique sets. There’s major overlap with Danaher’s Back Attacks: Enter The System. Sherdog user u/GoatArtemLobov chose Danaher over Gordon because “What I really want when I buy instructionals is concepts… Danaher is the best IMO.” The exhaustive format (every possible scenario from every angle) makes this a reference library, not light viewing.
Everyone. The back is the ultimate goal in grappling, and this teaches you how to capitalize once you get there.
You have zero interest in submitting people. (Why are you doing BJJ?)
Systematically Attacking The Legs (2023)
Gordon RyanGordon’s unified theory of modern leg locking. Entries from every position, finishing mechanics for every major leg lock, organized into a true system.
What it covers
Eight volumes (8h 26m confirmed runtime) covering heel hook finishing mechanics from every major leg entanglement: Irimi Ashi Garami (inside position), Cross Ashi Garami (“honey hole”/saddle), 50/50, and Outside Ashi. Gordon’s approach: hip trapping before attacking the heel, achilles lock to heel hook transitions, and the Single Roll Theory. ~20% of Gordon’s career submissions are heel hook variations. He favors cross ashi for inside heel hooks and frequently converts failed butterfly sweeps into heel hook attacks. Vols 7-8 are narrated rolling with detailed breakdown of decision points.
Why it stands out
- Connects leg attacks to the rest of your game (passing, back takes)
- Safe, structured approach to learning a complex area
- Updated 2023 release with Gordon’s most current competition techniques
“He’s the first guy to come up in a strong leg locking environment to have success as a passer, that’s worth a lot.”
u/Uchi_Mata on Sherdog Forums
At 8+ hours, it covers more entanglements and variations than most practitioners will ever need. If your gym restricts heel hooks, large portions of this set won’t be immediately applicable. The sheer volume can be overwhelming without a study plan.
Anyone serious about adding modern leg attacks to their arsenal, especially no-gi competitors.
Your gym forbids leg locks or you’re a strict gi-only player.
Systematically Attacking The Arm Bar (2023)
Gordon RyanOne submission, total mastery. A hyper-focused system that makes the armbar your most reliable finish from every position.
What it covers
Eight volumes focused entirely on the spider web position and armbar finishing mechanics. Gordon identifies 8 alternative leg configurations: quarter juji, three-quarter juji, full juji, pillow/scissor juji, and four more variations. Each configuration gets detailed coverage of: stabilizing the position against escapes, grip strategies for wrist control, separating arms against defensive grips, and finishing mechanics. This is the first instructional dedicated exclusively to armbar finishing (not entries). The logical tree-like structure makes it excellent reference material. Vols 7-8 are narrated rolling.
Why it stands out
- Spiderweb control details are the best available anywhere
- Tree-like decision structure makes it great for reference
- Connects a classic submission to modern BJJ positions
“A revolutionary instructional, the best yet on arm bars. 95% of this is stuff I’ve never seen before from anyone else, which is crazy for such a basic topic.”
BJJMore review (Max)
NOT about armbar entries: every demonstration starts with Gordon already in the armbar position. If you can’t get to spider web, this won’t help. The depth can overwhelm: “watching 9 grip breaks for posting with the left hand, then 9 similar grip breaks again for the right hand.” Heavy on finishing mechanics, light on how to get there. You need a separate resource for armbar entries.
Grapplers who want to specialize and develop a signature submission. The armbar is one of the highest-percentage finishes at every level.
You’re looking for a broad overview of many different submissions.
Pillars of Defense: Upper Body Joint Lock Escapes · Cheaper alternative: Karel Pravec: Fundamental Armbar Mechanics
Systematically Attacking The Guard 3.0: Inside Camping (2025)
Gordon RyanThe cutting-edge evolution of guard passing. ‘Inside camping’ shuts down the guard before the pass even begins. This is the current competitive meta.
What it covers
Eight volumes on pressure-based inside camping. Gordon adapted Roger Gracie’s gi-based “high head inside camping” for no-gi. Two core variations: Low-Head (forehead into opponent’s far shoulder, hips high, for active framing opponents) and High-Head (sprawled with hip-to-hip contact, shuts down butterfly hooks, more controlling/resting). The split squat stance removes knee from mat contact, negating knee lever attacks. Hand pinning strategy: pin bottom hand flush to mat, top hand to opponent’s torso. Primary methodology for killing knee shield: sustained pressure on defensive frames until opening appears, then split or compress knees. Per Simon Padilla (Living As A Grappler Substack): “The specific technique matters less than maintaining inside camping conditions for sufficient duration.”
Why it stands out
- The most current passing strategy available (2025 release)
- Strategic approach that minimizes scrambles and energy expenditure
- Directly addresses the modern flexible guard recovery meta
“I took Roger’s kind of initial idea and high head inside camping from the gi and kind of modified it and made it my own for no-gi.”
Gordon Ryan on developing the system
Very new release (mid-2025) with almost no long-form independent reviews yet. Requires understanding Guard 1.0 and 2.0 as prerequisites. Some feel inside camping is very specific to high-level no-gi competition and less applicable to recreational rolling. Lachlan Giles’ pressure passing material covers related concepts at a more beginner-accessible level. The full 1.0/2.0/3.0 curriculum is a massive time and money investment (three $349 sets totaling 30+ hours).
Competitive grapplers who already have a passing foundation and want the most current strategies.
You’re still working on the fundamentals from SATG 1.0 and 2.0. Master those first.
Systematically Attacking The Guard (2.0) · Cheaper alternative: Adam Wardzinski: Polish Power Inside Passing
Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Supine)
Gordon RyanThe other half of your open guard. Master DLR, RDLR, K-guard, and attacks from your back to complete the system the Seated set started.
What it covers
Eight volumes (6 technical + 2 rolling). Vol 1 covers supine fundamentals: inside/outside leg positioning, concave shoulder mechanics, and ashi garami as a control position. Vol 2 teaches Ashi X Guard (hybrid ashi garami + single leg X) with scissor sweep variations. Vol 3 introduces Ushiro X Guard with the “Ushiro X trilemma” (back take, guard pass, or leg lock from any response). Vol 4 covers DLR guard with tripod sweep, hip bump sweep, and ashi garami entries. Vol 5 is an entire volume dedicated to no-gi berimbolo with grip modifications, crab ride entries, and inversions to leg locks. Vol 6 handles RDLR with transitions connecting both De La Riva variations. BJJ World described this system as “impregnable.”
Why it stands out
- Creates a complete open guard when paired with the Seated set
- Clear systems for DLR and RDLR that connect to modern leg lock entries
- Covers guard recovery to supine when your seated guard gets smashed
“I’d pick it over the seated guard one in terms of the importance of the information. Provides so many more options compared to what practitioners are used to.”
BJJ World review
Many techniques require flexibility and comfort inverting that takes months to develop. Some DLR/RDLR content overlaps with Mikey Musumeci and Levi Jones-Leary’s material. Being an older release, some content feels less cutting-edge than Gordon’s newer sets. If you exclusively play butterfly/seated guard with no interest in DLR or berimbolo, skip this.
Open guard players who want a complete game from every angle, seated or on their back.
You exclusively play butterfly guard or closed guard with no interest in DLR/RDLR.
Open Guard (Seated) · Cheaper alternative: Giancarlo Bodoni: Forging the Guard: Wrestle Ups
Systematically Attacking The Front Headlock (2024)
Gordon RyanOne of grappling’s most powerful control hubs, fully systematized. Turn the front headlock into guillotines, anacondas, darces, and back takes.
What it covers
A complete front headlock system: establishing and maintaining control, transitioning to guillotines (arm-in and high-elbow), anaconda chokes, darce/brabo chokes, and using the front headlock as an entry to back takes. Also covers how to enter the front headlock from guard passing, from sprawls, and from scrambles.
Why it stands out
- Fills a common gap in most grapplers’ games
- Clear offensive paths from a position you’ll encounter constantly
- Connects front headlock to the guillotine set for deep specialization
“Gordon covers the arm-in, high wrist, and Marcelotine variations with insane detail. The section on finishing against people who know the defense is the real gold.”
BJJMore review
Heavy overlap with the Guillotine set. If you buy both, expect significant repetition. The community is split on whether Danaher’s Front Headlock: Enter The System is actually better as an overall framework. Danaher is more theoretical and systematic; Gordon is more practical and competition-tested. At ~10 hours for a single position, information overload is a real risk.
Wrestlers, scramblers, and anyone who frequently ends up in front headlock positions.
You avoid wrestling situations and prefer to play guard. The front headlock is a top position.
Systematically Attacking The Guillotine · Cheaper alternative: Firas Zahabi: Guillotine Traps
Systematically Attacking The Guillotine (2024)
Gordon RyanGordon has one of the best guillotines in grappling history. This breaks down every grip, entry, and finishing detail behind it.
What it covers
Just over 4 hours of instruction plus 1.5 hours of rolling analysis (Gordon’s shortest “Systematically Attacking” set). Vol 1 covers grip types, distance management, and hand positioning fundamentals. Vol 2 teaches closed guard guillotines with dilemma attacks combining hip bump sweeps, sumi gaeshi, and triangles. Vol 3 handles open guard guillotines with alignment principles and sweeps. Vol 4 covers guillotines during guard passing: head “footballing,” knee slide setups, and counters to body lock passes. Vol 5 teaches guillotines from mount, side control, and back mount. Vol 6 connects to darce and anaconda chokes from the front headlock. Vols 7-8 are live rolling analysis that BJJ World called “arguably the best part.”
Why it stands out
- Taught by someone famous for this specific submission
- Turns a ‘sometimes’ move into a reliable, systematic weapon
- Covers guillotine from both top and bottom positions
“Nobody has ever covered the guillotine so diversely as Ryan did. This is the best instructional by the King to this moment.”
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (8/10 rating)
At 4 hours, some feel it could go deeper on certain positions. Danaher’s Front Headlock: Enter The System arguably provides a more complete framework as an overall system. Significant overlap with Gordon’s own Front Headlock set. The shorter runtime is both a strength and weakness: more focused, but less encyclopedic than most Gordon releases.
Anyone who wants a go-to choke that works from both top and bottom.
You have short arms or hate front headlock positions. The guillotine requires reaching around the neck.
Systematically Attacking The Crucifix (2024)
Gordon RyanOne of BJJ’s most powerful but underutilized positions. The best seatbelt-to-crucifix system available adds a lethal layer to your back attacks.
What it covers
~4 hours across eight volumes. Vol 1 covers back and front mount crucifix control with arm positioning. Vol 2 teaches finishing techniques including the dorsal kimura-triangle combination and north-south transitions. Vol 3 explores mounted crucifix with open/locked hand variations and wrestling integration. Vol 4 covers crucifix entries against turtled opponents using leg traps and gift wraps. Vol 5 handles the belly-up (supine) back crucifix with escape route analysis. Vol 6 ties everything together: cycling between kimuras, triangles, and chokes with options to return to crucifix. Vols 7-8 are rolling demonstrations with detailed analysis.
Why it stands out
- Complete system for a position few people know how to defend
- Best available entry system from seatbelt/turtle
- Makes your back attack game much more dangerous
“The crucifix allows you to get the most out of the back mount, while still keeping all ‘around the world’ options open.”
BJJ World review (7.5/10 rating)
BJJ World rated this 7.5/10, Gordon’s lowest score. Reviewer Ognen Dzabirski said the turtle crucifix section (Part 4) “fails miserably” due to unrealistic turtle defense from the demonstration partner. At 3h 27m and 56 chapters it’s Gordon’s shortest technical set. The crucifix is genuinely niche: if your opponents don’t turtle or give up the back, this won’t come up in your rolling. Darragh O’Conaill’s Crucifix Encyclopedia is a cheaper alternative.
Back attack specialists who want to add another lethal dimension to their game.
You’re a beginner who needs to focus on more fundamental positions first.
Systematically Attacking The Back · Cheaper alternative: Darragh O’Conaill: Crucifix Encyclopedia
Systematically Attacking From Half Guard
Gordon RyanTransform half guard from a defensive shell into an offensive weapon. More aggressive than traditional half guard systems.
What it covers
Eight volumes covering every half guard variation. Vol 1: butterfly half guard foundation with inside space, head control, framing, the “central shift dilemma,” and transitions to sumi gaeshi, irimi ashi garami, and cross ashi. Vol 2: troubleshooting failed sumi gaeshi, knee lever switches, and kimura counters. Vol 3: knee shield with the “lower leg shift” principle and backstep counters. Vol 4: knee levers (9+ variations), kimuras from bottom, far leg ashi garami entries, and solutions for stalling opponents. Vol 5: deep half guard with backstep counters and recovery. Vol 6: scorpion half guard with hip heisting, overwrap grips, waiter sweeps, and back takes. Vols 7-8: narrated rolling.
Why it stands out
- Complete game plan from one of BJJ’s most common positions
- Offensive pressure from the bottom is highly effective
- Connects half guard to back takes and leg lock entries
“If you were looking for a way to easily and logically systematize half guard, this is the only instructional you’ll ever need!”
BJJ World review
Eight volumes without a structured study plan can feel like drinking from a firehose. Gordon’s philosophy is that half guard connects to everything (legs, back takes, sweeps), so if you don’t already have foundation in those areas, you’ll struggle. Gi half guard players may prefer Lucas Leite’s Coyote Half Guard or Bernardo Faria’s Deep Half Guard material. Lachlan Giles covers half guard extensively at a much lower price point.
Anyone who finds themselves in half guard often and wants to do more than just survive.
You prefer dynamic, long-range open guards and rarely play half guard.
Body Lock Study · Cheaper alternative: Craig Jones: The Z Guard Encyclopedia
Systematically Attacking The Turtle Position
Gordon RyanBreak down the turtle and turn your opponent’s defensive shell into a path to the back. Connects your passing to your back attacks.
What it covers
Eight volumes covering every aspect of turtle attacks. Part 1 covers grip fundamentals, breakdowns to side control, and following rolling escapes. Part 2 introduces wrestling rides (cross-body ride), secondary hooks, half Nelson and power half Nelson, juji gatame, and triangle submissions. Part 3 handles open turtle: hook insertion, reverse tight waist, calf slicer, hammerlock, and freestyle guillotine. Part 4 covers hip knock-over techniques, head and arm roll-throughs, strangle breakdowns. Part 5 is the crucifix from turtle: setup, positioning, phoenix eye technique, armbar and strangle finishes. Part 6 counters turtle rolls, maki komi defense, and standing escape responses. Vols 7-8 are rolling with commentary.
Why it stands out
- Solves a common frustration where many grapplers get stuck
- Links perfectly with a strong back attack game
- Teaches kuzushi (off-balancing) specific to turtle attacks
Read the full review of Systematically Attacking the Turtle →
“Compared to previous instructionals, this is Ryan’s best work so far, without a doubt. Organized perfectly, tackles a very important subject, and introduces other martial arts solutions.”
BJJ World review
Less necessary if your opponents don’t turtle often. In many gyms, opponents simply re-guard rather than turtle, making this less applicable. Best for competitors where turtle is a common response to guard passing.
Grapplers who want to complete their offensive chains from passing through to back takes.
You’re still focused on fundamental guard passing. Complete your passing first.
Systematically Attacking The Back · Cheaper alternative: Marcelo Garcia: MG Back Attack System 2.0
Systematically Attacking The Guard: Body Lock Study
Gordon RyanThe encyclopedic guide to the most powerful pressure pass in no-gi. Over 10 hours of body lock detail for the dedicated guard passer.
What it covers
Ten volumes totaling ~9 hours. Vol 1 establishes the centerline law for optimal grip placement and all body lock types (front, side, high, low). Vol 2: entries from kneeling and standing, plus shelving, stuffing, and splitting concepts. Vols 3-4: V-grips, hand staggering, tripod position, 3-direction passing theory, and leg rides. Vol 5: the “Golden Trilemma” concept and double underhook passing from high tripod. Vol 6: over-under passing with hand-locking mechanics. Vols 7-8: head-outside passing, claw rides, and guillotine counters. Vol 9: rolling footage. Vol 10: narrated roll analysis.
Why it stands out
- Truly encyclopedic: nothing is left out
- Teaches mastery of a single, high-percentage passing style
- At 10h 42m, the longest and most detailed of any single technique study
“Close to 9 hours of ultra high-quality instruction on the subject of making people feel helpless on the ground.”
BJJ World review (10/10 Technical Quality)
At ~9 hours across 10 parts, this is Gordon’s longest release. BJJ World noted it “uses so many tangents along the way it makes it difficult for people to follow him, especially beginners.” The DVD “lacks cohesion” despite pristine technical explanations. If you want body lock passing without the tangents, Danaher’s Fastest Way: Guard Passer covers core concepts with better structure.
Serious competitors and guard passers who want to specialize in pressure-based passing.
You are a beginner or prefer movement-based passing. This is deep specialist material.
Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0) · Cheaper alternative: Giancarlo Bodoni: Chest To Chest Half Guard Passing
Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Side Control & North South
Gordon RyanComplete attack system from side control and north-south. Submission chains and transitions that connect to finishes and back takes.
What it covers
Attacks from side control (near-side and far-side systems), north-south chokes, kimura traps from side control, transitions to mount and back, and using top pressure to force reactions. Covers both the submission game and the positional advancement game from these pins.
Why it stands out
- Pairs naturally with the Mount set for complete top control coverage
- North-south choke details are excellent
- Teaches the transition game between pins
“Combined with Mount, this forms a complete top-game system. The submission chains are forcing, not opportunistic.”
BJJ Fanatics product description
Less community discussion than Gordon’s passing and guard sets. Some kimura content overlaps with his standalone kimura instructional. Side control is lower on the positional hierarchy than mount or back, meaning less finishing potential. Bernardo Faria’s pressure-focused side control system offers similar concepts at a lower price. Best purchased as the 16-volume bundle with Mount for value.
Anyone who wants a complete top game covering side control, north-south, and transitions to mount.
You prefer to always advance to mount or back immediately. But learning side control attacks first often makes those transitions easier.
Pillars of Defense: Strangle Escapes
Gordon RyanSystematic defenses for triangles, guillotines, d’arces, and rear naked chokes. Early and late escapes with efficient leverage.
What it covers
Eight volumes dividing strangles into upper body (head/neck) and lower body (triangle family). Upper body: guillotine escapes (arm-in and no-arm, early and late stage), d’arce choke escapes, anaconda choke escapes, north-south choke defense, and front headlock defense (~2h 20m of front headlock sub defense content). Lower body: triangle choke escapes (early posture and late-stage). Also covers RNC escapes (though these appear again in the Back Escapes set). Each position gets both early-stage prevention and late-stage escape methods.
Why it stands out
- Addresses high-urgency submissions with systematic, repeatable methods
- Shorter than most Gordon sets, making it more digestible
- Builds confidence to try more offensive techniques
“A bit over 6 hours, which is the perfect length compared to some of Gordon Ryan’s other instructionals that average around 8 hours.”
BJJMore review (Max)
BJJMore’s reviewer noted being “confused by the broad topic of strangle escapes. A guillotine escape is very different from a triangle escape, and someone who often gets caught in guillotines isn’t necessarily the same person who often gets caught in triangles.” There’s also overlap: guillotine escapes have their own standalone Pillars set, and RNC escapes appear in the Back Escapes set too. Priit Mihkelson’s Defensive BJJ offers a conceptual shell-based alternative at a fraction of the cost.
All practitioners, especially those who tap too quickly to chokes and want systematic escape methods.
You feel pin and submission escapes are a more urgent priority for your game.
Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes · Cheaper alternative: Chris Paines: How to Defend Against Everyone
Pillars of Defense: Back Escapes
Gordon RyanThe flip side of Gordon’s famous back attack system. Systematic grip fighting, body triangle escapes, and turning defense into immediate counters.
What it covers
Eight volumes (~7 hours). The system divides escapes by which side the opponent’s overhook and underhook are on, then addresses body triangle configurations. Specific techniques: overhook-side shoulder slip, underhook-side escape sequences, body triangle breaks (overhook and underhook sides), seatbelt defense and strip, straight jacket defense and escape, hand fighting sequences (wrist control, frame establishment), hip switch to turtle recovery, Granby roll options, double over conversion, and headlock escapes from back control. Final volumes include narrated sparring showing the decision tree under live pressure.
Why it stands out
- Clear hierarchy of defensive priorities from back control
- Understanding the escapes makes your own back attacks stronger
- Taught by the most prolific back attacker in the sport
“Gordon Ryan lays out a full defensive framework against the most dominant position in grappling, with precise hand fighting and techniques to beat both overhook and underhook sides.”
BJJMore review (Max, October 2025)
Overlap with the Strangle Escapes set: both cover RNC escape mechanics, so buyers of the full Pillars series get some duplication. At $349 for a single defensive topic, the price is steep. Lachlan Giles offers back escape content within broader defensive courses at much lower price points. If your real problem is getting your back taken in the first place, invest in They Shall Not Pass (guard retention) instead.
Anyone who wants a complete understanding of back control from both offense and defense.
You’re a beginner who rarely has their back taken yet. Focus on pin escapes first.
Systematically Attacking The Back · Cheaper alternative: Craig Jones: Don’t Be Finished
Pillars of Defense: Upper Body Joint Lock Escapes
Gordon RyanSystematic armbar, kimura, and omoplata escapes. Both early prevention and late-stage survival techniques.
What it covers
Escapes from armbars (hitchhiker, stack, roll), kimuras (grip fighting, posture recovery), omoplatas (forward roll, posture up), and americanas. Teaches early-stage prevention (recognizing the setup and shutting it down) and late-stage escapes (what to do when you’re already caught).
Why it stands out
- Structured approach to submission defense, not just reactive scrambling
- Crucial for long-term health and safety on the mats
- Early prevention tactics save you from ever being in danger
Upper body submissions are less immediately threatening than chokes, so this set feels less urgent than strangle escapes or pin escapes. It’s important but most people should prioritize the other defensive sets first.
Practitioners who frequently get caught in armbars and kimuras.
You feel pin and strangle escapes are more urgent. Get those first.
Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Upper Body Takedowns
Gordon RyanGordon’s systematic approach to the stand-up game. BJJ-specific wrestling: clinch work, throws, and strategies adapted for the guard pull and submission threats of grappling.
What it covers
Upper body clinch work tailored for BJJ: collar tie establishment and maintenance, snap down variations, arm drag to back takes (plus failed arm drag recovery back to collar tie), over-under clinch positioning, and body lock takedowns from the clinch. Addresses BJJ-specific problems: defending the guard pull while shooting, avoiding guillotine counters during takedown attempts, and maintaining control against submission threats. Based on New Wave Jiu-Jitsu gripping theory.
Why it stands out
- Applies systematic thinking to the chaos of stand-up grappling
- Designed specifically for BJJ, not pure wrestling
- Addresses BJJ-specific threats that pure wrestling instructionals ignore
“His best-organized instructional to date, by a country mile! In a DVD where Ryan does not show a single takedown, he sets you up to succeed at all of them.”
BJJ World review (9.5/10 Expert Rating)
Stand-up grappling is harder to drill and improve from video alone compared to ground techniques. You need a training partner who’s also working takedowns. Also, Gordon is not a wrestler by background, so pure wrestling purists may prefer dedicated wrestling instructionals.
Any grappler who wants a confident and effective stand-up game.
You are a dedicated guard puller with zero interest in takedowns.
Lower Body Takedowns · Cheaper alternative: Darryl Christian: Bodylock System
Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Beginners Guide
Gordon RyanThe entry point to the Scrimmage series. Conceptual foundations: stance, motion, pummeling, and BJJ wrestling strategy.
What it covers
Six volumes (3.5+ hours) covering the conceptual groundwork for stand-up grappling. No takedowns are taught. Instead: line of sight theory, body alignment principles, the rule that locked arms dominate unlocked arms, inside position control, collar tie establishment and maintenance, gripping theory from New Wave Jiu-Jitsu, and early/late defense from standing. BJJ World’s reviewer (a black belt with a Judo background) called this his “favorite instructional so far out of all Gordon’s work” because the concepts “open up far more than just one takedown.”
Why it stands out
- Non-intimidating entry point into wrestling for BJJ
- Provides conceptual foundation the other Scrimmage sets build on
- Shorter and more digestible than the technique-heavy volumes
“His best-organized instructional to date, by a country mile! In a DVD where Ryan does not show a single takedown, he sets you up to succeed at all of them.”
Ognen Dzabirski, BJJ World (9.5/10 rating)
Contains NO actual takedowns. This is purely conceptual: stance, motion, pummeling theory. If you want drillable takedown techniques, you must also buy Upper Body and/or Lower Body Takedowns ($349 each). The full Scrimmage system costs 4 separate instructionals at $349 each ($1,396 at full price). Andrew Wiltse’s wrestling-for-BJJ content is praised as more practical and cheaper.
Beginners or anyone who feels completely lost on their feet.
You already have a solid wrestling or judo background.
Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Lower Body Takedowns
Gordon RyanThe other half of Gordon’s stand-up system. Singles, doubles, and lower body attacks adapted for the specific dangers of BJJ.
What it covers
Lower body attacks adapted for BJJ: ankle pick variations (BJJ World called this “the most complete breakdown of ankle pick variations ever filmed”), single leg finishes for no-gi (high crotch, sweep single, low single), double leg variations (blast double, outside double), knee taps, and double kouchi gari. Each technique covers setup, execution, and finishing while addressing BJJ-specific counters like guillotine threats and guard pulls.
Why it stands out
- Complete lower body takedown system for BJJ
- Addresses BJJ-specific problems that wrestling instructionals ignore
- Pairs with Upper Body Takedowns for a complete stand-up game
Gordon is not a wrestler by background. He’s known for guard pulling and groundwork, so wrestling purists may prefer actual wrestlers’ instructionals. Lower body shots require more athletic commitment than clinch work. The full Scrimmage system requires four separate purchases ($1,396 total at full price). Adam Wheeler’s Fundamental Folkstyle Wrestling covers similar ground for less.
Grapplers who want a comprehensive stand-up game covering both clinch work and shooting.
You prefer to only throw from the clinch and never shoot.
Upper Body Takedowns · Cheaper alternative: Adam Wheeler: Fundamental Folkstyle Wrestling
Systematically Attacking The Half Guard and Scrimmaging: Whizzer vs Underhook
Gordon RyanGordon’s newest release breaks the half guard whizzer-vs-underhook scramble into a single repeatable system: who wins the exchange, why, and how to turn the advantage into a sweep, pass, or back take.
What it covers
Eight volumes built around the half guard scrimmage where one player has the underhook and the other has the whizzer. Volume 1 lays the framework: jiu-jitsu vs wrestling in half guard, push-pull theory, hooking the leg, and the battle of the knees (knees up vs knees down). Volumes 2 and 3 attack from the underhook: killing the whizzer, countering the front headlock off a tight waist or ankle grip, constant kuzushi, the cutback, far knee tap to pinch headlock, body lock, and roll-through counters that recover to the back when a back take fails. Volumes 4 and 5 cover leg entries from the position: inserting the far hook, shelving the leg on the inside and outside hip, kani basami defense, entering cross ashi and ashi garami, and extracting the leg against both a stuff and a pin. Volumes 6 and 7 flip to the overhook side, working whizzer placement, the balancing act of locked vs unlocked hands, uchi mata, and counters to body locks, roll-throughs, and far-hook insertions. Volume 8 is live rolling plus chapter-by-chapter commentary, which is the format that makes Gordon’s “scrimmage” sets useful for seeing the concepts under resistance.
Why it stands out
- Treats one specific exchange in real depth instead of surveying the whole position
- Covers both sides of the battle: attacking from the underhook and from the overhook/whizzer
- The rolling-with-commentary volume shows the system against a resisting partner
It is narrow by design. This is the whizzer-vs-underhook scramble, not a complete half guard game, so it assumes you already understand how you arrived in the position. At $174.50 it costs more than a full positional system like Lachlan Giles’ Half Guard Anthology ($79), which covers entries, sweeps, and retention end to end. For most people Gordon’s own Systematically Attacking From Half Guard (#15) is the broader starting point, and this set is the follow-up once that one specific scramble is the thing costing you matches. No independent reviews exist yet, so the assessment here is based on the official volume breakdown and Gordon’s track record with the rest of the Scrimmage line.
Intermediate and advanced grapplers who keep stalling in the half guard scramble and want a decisive answer to the whizzer-vs-underhook battle.
You are still learning half guard generally. Build the base first.
Pillars of Defense: Leg Lock Escapes & Counter Locks
Gordon RyanNavigate modern leg locks with confidence. Defend heel hooks, straight ankle locks, and toe holds, then turn your opponent’s attack into your own counter.
What it covers
Ten volumes covering escapes and counter-locks from all major modern leg entanglements: Irimi Ashi Garami, Outside Ashi, Cross Ashi, 50/50, Top Ushiro, Mutual Ashi, and Inside Ashi Garami. Covers achilles lock defense, toe hold defense, and both inside and outside heel hook defense. The key differentiator: Gordon doesn’t just teach escapes, he teaches counter-locks that turn failed attacks into your own leg lock submissions. The “escape to counter” framework separates this from purely defensive content.
Why it stands out
- Essential knowledge for the modern no-gi meta
- Focus on countering, not just escaping
- Teaches both prevention and late-stage survival
“There are several important concepts that you have to take into account when escaping leg locks. And as long as you obey them, you’re going to be fine.”
BJJEE article (October 2023)
Requires existing leg lock knowledge: beginners who don’t understand ashi garami positions will be lost. At 10 volumes for purely defensive content, some find it slow-paced. Lachlan Giles’ Leg Lock Anthology covers both offense and defense at a fraction of the price and is often recommended as the community’s top leg lock instructional overall. Craig Jones’ leg lock content is more concise for those who prefer shorter instructionals.
No-gi competitors and anyone who trains with skilled leg lockers.
You are a beginner or train primarily in a gym where leg locks are rare.
Systematically Attacking The Legs · Cheaper alternative: Giancarlo Bodoni: Leg Lock Defense
Pillars of Defense: Leg Locks to Guard Passing / Back Takes
Gordon RyanNiche but powerful: convert your opponent’s leg lock attacks into guard passes and back takes. Defense-to-offense at the highest level.
What it covers
Two separate instructionals that bridge defense and offense: Leg Locks to Guard Passing teaches body lock passing, leg drags, tripod passing, and build-to-stand sequences from cleared leg entanglements. Leg Locks to Back Takes covers inverting opponents’ leg lock commitment into back exposure. Gordon’s “Trilemma” concept: opponents must simultaneously defend leg lock attacks, guard passes, and back takes, ensuring you always have a next action.
Why it stands out
- Teaches a high-level concept that separates advanced players from everyone else
- Unique material not covered anywhere else
- Bridges the gap between defense and offense in leg lock exchanges
“The best way to submit opponents isn’t with just one attack. It’s by chaining attacks together and posing dilemmas to your opponents, so you can capitalize on one of the available moves.”
BJJEE article on Gordon Ryan’s “Trilemma” concept
Two separate purchases required for passing and back-take transitions ($698 at full price). Add the base Leg Lock Escapes set and you’re at $1,047 for the complete defensive leg lock ecosystem. This is niche material: only useful if you’re regularly exchanging leg locks at a high level. Mikey Musumeci and Lachlan Giles cover defense-to-offense transitions within single, cheaper instructionals.
Advanced competitors already comfortable in leg lock exchanges who want to add transitional offense.
You’re still learning basic leg lock defense. Master the Leg Lock Escapes set first.
Leg Lock Escapes & Counter Locks · Cheaper alternative: Kade & Tye Ruotolo: Leg Pin Passing System
Systematically Attacking From Closed Guard
Gordon RyanA solid systematic treatment of the most traditional guard. Posture control, breakdowns, and chained attacks from closed guard.
What it covers
Eight volumes with a progressive structure. Vol 1: side scissors with armbar, rear triangle, back take, and pendulum sweep variations. Vol 2: pendulum sweeps into triangle entries plus a complete arm drag system with back takes, side armbar, and knee lever. Vol 3: problem-solving with stack defenses, pullout counters, figure-four control, and wrist control for armbar finishes. Vol 4: the pinch headlock system with flower sweeps, sumi gaeshi, and ude gatame. Vol 5: overhook clamp position with armbars, kimuras, omoplatas, leg lock entries, and triangles. Vol 6: kimura setups, hip bump sweeps, and the handstand sweep. Vols 7-8: five narrated rolls each. Uke: Nathalia Santoro.
Why it stands out
- Applies modern systematic thinking to a classic position
- Great foundational tool for beginners
- Clear attack chains and decision trees
“This Gordon Ryan instructional surpasses not only all other BJJ DVDs but also Ryan’s previous set. The organization is much better.”
BJJ World review
Closed guard has become less dominant in modern no-gi competition. If you compete, the Open Guard (Seated) and They Shall Not Pass will impact your results more directly. At 6 hours it’s shorter than most Gordon sets, but some later volumes (pinch headlocks, overhook clamp) are advanced enough to lose beginners. Marcelo Garcia’s closed guard material is a cheaper alternative for fundamentals.
Beginners who need a solid foundation, or anyone looking to sharpen their closed guard.
You primarily play no-gi and want to focus on open guards. The open guard sets are a better investment.
Open Guard (Seated) · Cheaper alternative: Clark Gracie: Automatic Omoplata System
High Percentage Gi Passes
Gordon RyanA short, free look at Gordon’s approach to passing in the gi. Too brief to be a system, but a nice taste of his teaching style. Check availability.
What it covers
A brief introduction to a few of Gordon Ryan’s favorite gi passes: knee slice concepts, headquarters position, and how a primarily no-gi athlete approaches the gi. This was released as a free promotional instructional.
Why it stands out
- It’s free (when available)
- Good taste of Gordon’s teaching style if you’re undecided
- Practical knee slice and headquarters concepts
At 39 minutes, this is barely a warmup by Gordon’s standards. You’ll get a taste of his teaching but nothing approaching a complete system. Availability varies on BJJ Fanatics.
Anyone curious about Gordon Ryan’s teaching style without spending money.
You’re looking for a comprehensive passing system. This is a sampler.
ADCC 2022 Breakdown (My Evolution Your Revolution)
Gordon RyanMatch-by-match strategy analysis of one of ADCC’s most dominant performances. Competition mindset, not technique instruction.
What it covers
Gordon breaks down his entire 2022 ADCC run match by match: pre-match strategy, in-match decisions, why he chose specific techniques at specific moments, and how he read opponents’ patterns. This is competition IQ training, not technique instruction.
Why it stands out
- Unparalleled insight into high-level strategy and fight IQ
- Excellent for competition preparation
- See how theory translates to the highest level of competition
“Unlike anything we’ve seen before. His level of breakdown here is unbelievable, with extreme details that probably no one else thinks of during grappling.”
BJJ World review
Match study format means you learn what happened in THOSE specific matches, not a systematic curriculum. If you bought the 2019 and 2017 editions, many strategic concepts repeat. Some buyers want drillable technique sequences, not commentary. Lachlan Giles posted his own free analysis of his Gordon Ryan match on social media, offering the opponent’s perspective at no cost.
Aspiring competitors and BJJ nerds who love strategy and analysis.
You want a structured lesson plan with drillable techniques.
ADCC 2019 & 2017 Breakdowns
Gordon RyanGordon’s earlier ADCC championship analyses. See how his game evolved from 2017 to 2019 for historical perspective on the no-gi meta.
What it covers
Similar format to the 2022 breakdown but covering Gordon’s 2017 and 2019 ADCC performances. Useful for seeing how his strategic approach evolved over time and how the competitive meta changed.
Why it stands out
- Historical perspective on how Gordon’s game evolved
- See how the no-gi meta changed from 2017 to 2022
- Available as a bundle for better value
“As a format, this is the very best one available these days. You get to watch actual matches of the highest level and get an insider view of the action.”
BJJ World review on the MEYR series
Older strategies from 2017 and 2019 that have since been refined in Gordon’s competitive evolution. The 2022 breakdown is more relevant to the current meta. If you buy the bundle with all three editions, expect significant strategic overlap as core DDS principles repeat across all three. These are strategy lectures, not technique guides.
Serious competitors and fans who want to understand the strategic evolution of no-gi grappling.
You need step-by-step technique guides. These are strategy lectures.
The Sport of Kings (Mindset)
Gordon RyanA non-technical lecture on championship mindset: training philosophy, competition mentality, goal setting, and what it takes to be elite.
What it covers
Four volumes of pure lecture (no technique). Vol 1: mental preparation, training schedules, goal-setting, gym selection, and developing “supreme confidence.” Vol 2: approaches to losing, intentional placement in difficult positions, training with different belt levels. Vol 3: competition prep, drilling vs. not drilling, funding for professional athletes, anxiety management. Vol 4: building routines and day-of-competition breathing techniques. Gordon advises: one hour drilling, 40 minutes rolling in six 6-minute rounds. Key quote: “I get submitted more than anybody in training. I never get submitted in competition.”
Why it stands out
- Rare look into the psychology of a dominant champion
- Lessons on discipline and focus apply beyond BJJ
- Short and easy to consume
“Joshua Richards called it ‘mostly sounded like Ryan venting, but still valuable.’ Rated 4.5/5 by BJJ Equipment as a must-watch for competitors.”
JoshRichBJJ / BJJ Equipment reviews
Joshua Richards said it “mostly sounded like Ryan venting.” Critics wished for more specific templates, workout schedules, and actionable frameworks instead of general mindset advice. At the premium Gordon Ryan price point, some feel a $20 sports psychology book covers more ground.
Highly dedicated competitors struggling with the mental aspects of the sport.
You are looking for techniques to improve your skills on the mat. Buy literally any other set first.
Getting Swole As A Grappler
Gordon RyanGordon’s strength and conditioning program for grapplers. A fitness instructional, not a BJJ technique one.
What it covers
Three DVDs plus an e-book. DVD 1 (The Basics): introduction to co-instructor Nathalia Santoro (professional bodybuilder, 24 titles), supplement guidance (quality and timing over quantity), weight cutting and building phases, mental attitude, stretching protocols for grapplers. DVD 2 (The Exercises): pre/post-workout stretching, chest, back, arm, shoulder, and leg exercises with programming guidance. DVD 3 (The Nutrition): shopping guidance, efficient meal prep, recipes for cutting and building phases. Gordon went from 163 lbs to 232 lbs and back to 194 lbs in ~18 months.
Why it stands out
- Clear strength training template from a top-level athlete
- Addresses the specific challenges of training around a BJJ schedule
- Practical exercise selection focused on grappling-relevant movements
The elephant in the room: Gordon admitted to PED use and publicly stated he’s “willing to lose 20 years off of my life” from steroids to be the BJJ GOAT (MMA Mania, December 2024). The community widely memes this instructional for not addressing how much of his physical transformation was drug-assisted versus training and nutrition. Co-instructor Nathalia Santoro is a bodybuilder, not a sports performance coach. Joshua Richards listed this under “lesser value” in his $1,000 instructional review. Chad Wesley Smith’s Juggernaut BJJ program is grappling-specific S&C from actual sports science.
Grapplers who want to start a serious strength program but don’t know where to begin.
You are looking for Jiu-Jitsu techniques. This is a workout plan.
All picks, side by side
Comparison tableSwipe sideways for details · the price column stays pinned →
| # | Instructional | Instructor | Runtime | Level | Format | Category | Tier | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0) | Gordon Ryan | 10h 39m | All levels | Guard Passing | Guard passing system | $$$ | Check price → |
| 2 | They Shall Not Pass (Guard Retention) | Gordon Ryan | 8h 3m | All levels | Guard Retention | Guard retention | $$$ | Check price → |
| 3 | Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes | Gordon Ryan | 7h 56m | All levels | Escapes / Defense | Starting point | $$$ | Check price → |
| 4 | Systematically Attacking The Guard (2.0) | Gordon Ryan | 7h 47m | Intermediate to Advanced | Guard Passing | Modern guard passing | $$$ | Check price → |
| 5 | Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Seated) | Gordon Ryan | 8h 5m | All levels | Open Guard / Attacks | Seated open guard | $$$ | Check price → |
| 6 | Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Mount | Gordon Ryan | 5h 30m | All levels | Top Control / Submissions | Mount attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 7 | Systematically Attacking The Back | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Back Attacks / Submissions | Back attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 8 | Systematically Attacking The Legs (2023) | Gordon Ryan | 8h 15m | All levels | Leg Locks / Submissions | Leg lock system | $$$ | Check price → |
| 9 | Systematically Attacking The Arm Bar (2023) | Gordon Ryan | 8h | All levels | Submissions | Armbar system | $$$ | Check price → |
| 10 | Systematically Attacking The Guard 3.0: Inside Camping (2025) | Gordon Ryan | 8h | Intermediate to Advanced | Guard Passing | Inside-camping passing | $$$ | Check price → |
| 11 | Systematically Attacking From Open Guard (Supine) | Gordon Ryan | 8h 33m | All levels | Open Guard / Attacks | Supine open guard | $$$ | Check price → |
| 12 | Systematically Attacking The Front Headlock (2024) | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Top Control / Submissions | Front headlock | $$$ | Check price → |
| 13 | Systematically Attacking The Guillotine (2024) | Gordon Ryan | 4h 23m | All levels | Submissions | Guillotine system | $$ | Check price → |
| 14 | Systematically Attacking The Crucifix (2024) | Gordon Ryan | 3h 27m | Intermediate to Advanced | Positional Attacks / Submissions | Crucifix system | $$ | Check price → |
| 15 | Systematically Attacking From Half Guard | Gordon Ryan | 8h 3m | All levels | Half Guard / Attacks | Half guard attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 16 | Systematically Attacking The Turtle Position | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Positional Attacks | Turtle attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 17 | Systematically Attacking The Guard: Body Lock Study | Gordon Ryan | 10h 42m | Intermediate to Advanced | Guard Passing | Body lock passing | $$$ | Check price → |
| 18 | Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Side Control & North South | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Top Control / Submissions | Side control attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 19 | Pillars of Defense: Strangle Escapes | Gordon Ryan | 6h (est.) | All levels | Escapes / Defense | Strangle escapes | $$$ | Check price → |
| 20 | Pillars of Defense: Back Escapes | Gordon Ryan | 8h 1m | All levels | Escapes / Defense | Back escapes | $$$ | Check price → |
| 21 | Pillars of Defense: Upper Body Joint Lock Escapes | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Escapes / Defense | Joint lock escapes | $$$ | Check price → |
| 22 | Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Upper Body Takedowns | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Takedowns / Wrestling | Upper body takedowns | $$$ | Check price → |
| 23 | Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Beginners Guide | Gordon Ryan | 4h (est.) | Beginner | Takedowns / Wrestling | Beginner takedowns | $$ | Check price → |
| 24 | Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage: Lower Body Takedowns | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | All levels | Takedowns / Wrestling | Lower body takedowns | $$$ | Check price → |
| 25 | Systematically Attacking The Half Guard and Scrimmaging: Whizzer vs Underhook | Gordon Ryan | 8 volumes | Intermediate / Advanced | Half Guard / Scrimmaging | Half guard scrimmaging | $$$ | Check price → |
| 26 | Pillars of Defense: Leg Lock Escapes & Counter Locks | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | Intermediate to Advanced | Escapes / Defense | Leg lock escapes | $$$ | Check price → |
| 27 | Pillars of Defense: Leg Locks to Guard Passing / Back Takes | Gordon Ryan | 8h (est.) | Advanced | Transitions / Defense | Leg lock transitions | $$$ | Check price → |
| 28 | Systematically Attacking From Closed Guard | Gordon Ryan | 8h 15m | Beginner to Intermediate | Closed Guard / Attacks | Closed guard attacks | $$$ | Check price → |
| 29 | High Percentage Gi Passes | Gordon Ryan | 39m | All levels | Guard Passing (Gi) | Gi guard passes | $ | Check price → |
| 30 | ADCC 2022 Breakdown (My Evolution Your Revolution) | Gordon Ryan | 3h 4m | Intermediate to Advanced | Competition Analysis | Competition breakdown | $$ | Check price → |
| 31 | ADCC 2019 & 2017 Breakdowns | Gordon Ryan | 6h (est.) | Intermediate to Advanced | Competition Analysis | Adcc breakdowns | $$$ | Check price → |
| 32 | The Sport of Kings (Mindset) | Gordon Ryan | 2h 45m | All levels | Mindset / Philosophy | Mindset set | $$ | Check price → |
| 33 | Getting Swole As A Grappler | Gordon Ryan | 3h 46m | All levels | Strength & Conditioning | Strength training | $$ | Check price → |
About Gordon Ryan
Gordon Ryan is widely considered the greatest no-gi grappler of all time. Trained by John Danaher from his teens, he’s won ADCC multiple times in both his weight class and the absolute division. His instructional catalog on BJJ Fanatics is the largest of any single athlete: 30+ releases covering every major position in grappling.
What makes Gordon’s instructionals stand out is his systematic teaching approach. Every set follows the same pattern: establish a framework, show every variation methodically, then explain how opponents try to counter and how you re-counter. It’s encyclopedic. The downside: most sets run 8-11 hours. You’re getting a complete system, not a quick-tip video.
Gordon Ryan’s 3 Instructional Series
Gordon Ryan’s 3 Instructional Series
1. Systematically Attacking (Offense)
Gordon’s flagship series. Each set breaks down a specific position or submission into a complete offensive system. Titles include guard passing (1.0, 2.0, 3.0), back attacks, leg locks, armbars, mount, side control, open guard (seated & supine), half guard, closed guard, front headlock, guillotine, crucifix, turtle attacks, and the body lock study.
Best for: Building a complete offensive game, one position at a time.
Start with: Systematically Attacking The Guard (1.0) or Open Guard (Seated).
2. Pillars of Defense (Defense)
The defensive counterpart. Each set teaches escapes and counters for a specific danger: pin escapes, back escapes, strangle escapes, upper body joint lock escapes, leg lock escapes, and the transitional “leg locks to passing/back takes” sets.
Best for: Filling defensive gaps. Most people start with Pin Escapes.
Start with: Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes.
3. Systematically Attacking The Scrimmage (Takedowns)
Gordon’s newest series (2024). Covers BJJ-specific wrestling: upper body takedowns, lower body takedowns, and a beginner’s guide to the stand-up position. Designed for grapplers, not wrestlers.
Best for: Anyone who feels lost on the feet. The beginner’s guide is the entry point.
Start with: Beginners Guide to Success, then Upper Body Takedowns.
Find Your Gordon Ryan Instructional
👑 Find Your Gordon Ryan Instructional
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How to watch Gordon Ryan instructionals for free
Gordon has released two free instructionals over the years. The first one (Ultimate Submissions) is almost always available. The second (Gi Passes) comes and goes. Neither is a complete system, but they’re a great way to sample his teaching style before committing to a paid set.
Free: Gordon Ryan, Danaher & more show their best submissions
Free (when available): Gordon’s Gi passing secrets
Note: not always available
Gordon Ryan Terminology Glossary
- Systematically Attacking – Gordon’s flagship offensive instructional series. Each title covers a complete system for one position or submission.
- Pillars of Defense – Gordon’s defensive instructional series. Each title covers escapes and counters for a specific danger (pins, chokes, joint locks, leg locks).
- Trilemma – A situation where your opponent faces three bad options. Gordon’s guard passing forces opponents to choose between three defenses, each of which leads to a pass or submission.
- Straightjacket – Gordon’s method of controlling the back for the rear naked choke. Involves trapping one arm with your legs while controlling the other with your arms.
- Inside Camping – A modern passing strategy where you occupy the space between your opponent’s legs and use pressure to prevent guard recovery before initiating passes.
- Shoulder Crunch Sumi Gaeshi – Gordon’s signature seated guard technique. A modified butterfly sweep using head and shoulder pressure to off-balance the opponent.
- Spiderweb – The control position for the armbar. Both legs over the opponent’s torso, hips high, controlling the arm for the finish.
- Defensive to Offensive Cycle, Gordon’s concept that every escape should transition directly into an attack, not just return to neutral.
- Scrimmage, Gordon’s term for the stand-up grappling phase. His takedown series uses this term instead of “wrestling.”
FAQ
What is the best Gordon Ryan instructional for beginners?
Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes is the best starting point. It has the clearest structure, provides immediate impact, and builds your defensive foundation. After that, They Shall Not Pass (guard retention) is the logical next step.
Are Gordon Ryan instructionals worth the money?
Yes, if you’re willing to study them seriously. Gordon’s sets average 8 hours and contain enough detail to study for months. One reviewer spent $1,000 on Gordon’s catalog and concluded it was ‘worth the money’ because he successfully applied techniques in live rolling. The key is drilling the material, not just watching.
What is the difference between Systematically Attacking The Guard 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0?
1.0 (2019) builds the foundational framework: tight passing, loose passing, and submission-based passing. 2.0 (2021) adds modern dynamic techniques: toreandos, high-steps, and answers to new guard innovations. 3.0 (2025) covers the ‘inside camping’ meta, a pressure-based approach to shutting down guards before passing. Start with 1.0, add 2.0 when ready, and get 3.0 only if you’re competing.
How do Gordon Ryan’s instructionals compare to John Danaher’s?
Both are systematic and extremely detailed. Danaher’s teaching style is more conceptual and lecture-based with extensive verbal explanation. Gordon is more direct and technique-focused with less philosophical discussion. Many people own both and find they complement each other. If forced to choose, Gordon’s sets tend to be more immediately applicable while Danaher’s provide deeper conceptual understanding.
Is They Shall Not Pass Gordon Ryan’s best instructional?
It’s the most universally recommended. The BJJ community consistently rates it as essential regardless of belt level or style. However, the ‘best’ depends on your needs: if you need guard passing, SATG 1.0 is the better choice. If you need escapes, Pin Escapes is the better choice. They Shall Not Pass wins the ‘if you can only buy one’ debate because everyone needs guard retention.
What order should I buy Gordon Ryan instructionals?
Start with your biggest weakness. For most people: 1) Pin Escapes (defense), 2) They Shall Not Pass (guard retention), 3) Systematically Attacking The Guard 1.0 (passing), 4) Open Guard Seated (bottom game), 5) Back Attacks or Legs (submissions). This order builds a complete game from defense outward.
Does Gordon Ryan have any free instructionals?
Yes, two. ‘BJJ Fanatics Ultimate Submissions’ features Gordon alongside Danaher and other instructors showing their best submissions. It’s almost always available for free. ‘High Percentage Gi Passes’ is a short (39-minute) instructional that comes and goes on the platform.
Are the Pillars of Defense series worth buying?
The Pin Escapes volume is absolutely worth it and is one of Gordon’s top 3 overall. The other volumes (Strangle Escapes, Back Escapes, Joint Lock Escapes, Leg Lock Escapes) are good but more specialized. Buy them based on which submissions catch you most often. The Leg Locks to Passing/Back Takes sets are advanced material.
Is the Scrimmage takedown series good?
It’s Gordon’s newest series (2024) and fills a real gap for BJJ practitioners who want to improve their stand-up. However, takedowns are harder to learn from video alone compared to ground techniques. The Beginners Guide provides conceptual foundations, while the Upper and Lower Body Takedowns volumes cover specific techniques. Good addition, but not a priority over ground technique sets.
How long are Gordon Ryan’s instructionals?
Most are 7-10 hours, with some exceptions. The Body Lock Study is the longest at 10h 42m. The shortest technique sets are around 6 hours. The ADCC breakdowns run 3-6 hours. Plan to study each set over weeks or months, not in one sitting.
Still not sure which Gordon set to start with?
If you only buy one, make it They Shall Not Pass. If you want the clearest first step, start with Pillars of Defense: Pin Escapes. Sitewide ~50% codes run almost year-round, so check the current price before you commit.