A complete no-gi system to break, control, and finish the turtle reliably.
The Bottom Line
You learn a structured attack chain from breakdown to back takes and chokes. You get precise control mechanics that fit modern pressure passing. You will not get gi-specific lapel attacks or beginner pacing.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Competitors and coaches
Skip if: You want gi lapels
Tech focus: Back Takes, Crucifix, Clock Choke
Biggest takeaway: Break down before finishing
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What You'll Learn
Elite no-gi blueprint for breaking, controlling, and finishing the turtle from top. Ryan emphasizes structured entries into back takes, crucifix, and chokes after consistent breakdowns. Expect a clear progression, not a move dump.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Back Takes
- Seatbelt Control
- Crucifix
- Clock Choke
- Hooks
- Rear Naked Choke
- Breakdowns
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 9 hours and 11 minutes
- Volumes: 8
Should You Buy It?
Buy it now. I ranked this first because it delivers a real, testable system for finishing turtle that scales to competition intensity.
Why Gordon Ryan?
Gordon Ryan is an ADCC absolute champion and one of the most successful no-gi competitors ever, known for systematic instruction and high conversion from dominant control.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Clear step-by-step structure that chains breakdown to back take and finish.
- Pairs perfectly with modern guard-passing to force turtle consistently.
- High-percentage control details translate well to competition pace.
- One of the few deep dives on top turtle with real system logic.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Very expensive compared to other options.
- Focuses on finishing once turtle is established, not creating turtle from neutral.
- Best for no-gi; gi players may want lapel-specific follow-ups.
- Advanced pacing can overwhelm newer students.
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Smart Alternatives
- The Roger Gracie Turtle Attack System – Fundamental gi-first attacks with crisp control for all belts. (Price: $127.00, 3 vols)
- Crack The Turtle – Front headlock and wrestling-flavored offense for no-gi. (Price: $127.00, 4 vols)
- Attacking & Defending The Turtle – Budget-friendly top-and-bottom essentials from an Olympic medalist. (Price: $47.00, 2 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Systematically Attacking the Turtle Position on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
