Turn side control into a head-and-arm pressure ride that funnels straight into chokes.
The Bottom Line
You learn to hold and grind until openings appear. The ride adds diaphragm and reverse Kesa finishes. You will not get a points-first IBJJF curriculum.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Side control pressure hunters
Skip if: You dislike kesa pressure
Tech focus: Kesa Gatame, Reverse Kesa, Arm Triangle Entries
Biggest takeaway: Ride creates constant openings
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What You'll Learn
Barnett's catch-wrestling Kesa and reverse Kesa ride creates unstoppable head-and-arm pressure, with diaphragm chokes, reverse Kesa finishes, and twisting headlocks. It is a superb complement if your arm triangle stalls from side control; the ride keeps you on top and forces defenses that open the choke.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Kesa Gatame
- Head And Arm Diaphragm Choke
- Reverse Kesa
- Twisting Headlock
- Arm Triangle Entries
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 2 hours and 11 minutes
- Volumes: 3
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I use the ride to force a frame that exposes the carotid, then switch back to classic arm triangle mechanics.
Why Josh Barnett?
Josh Barnett is a former UFC champion and catch-wrestling standout. His Kesa system emphasizes heavy rides and diaphragm-based strangles.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Users report this made their Kesa 'unstoppable' for a while.
- Great in gi and no-gi for side control pressure.
- Highly recommended when coaches dismiss Kesa as risky.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some BJJ gyms dislike Kesa due to back-take risk.
- Neck and chest pressure feels mean to training partners.
- Less IBJJF rule-set framing; more catch flavor.
Smart Alternatives
- Off With Their Head: The Arm Triangle – Arm triangle with similar pressure-first ethos. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols, 2020)
Sources & References
Official listing: View Championship Catch Wrestling: The Head and Arm Ride on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
