Learn the mechanics behind each submission so your escapes become inevitable and systemic.
The Bottom Line
You learn why submissions work, then use that knowledge to nullify chokes and joint locks. The heel-hook defense material is especially extensive and current. You will not get broad coverage of every submission or quick, minimalist pacing.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Detail-oriented learners
Skip if: You hate long lectures
Tech focus: Guillotine Defense, Armbar Escape, Triangle Escape, Kimura Escape, Heel Hook Defense, 50/50 Defense, Cross Ashi Defense
Biggest takeaway: Know the mechanism; kill it.
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What You'll Learn
Danaher dissects how submissions work so you can dismantle them methodically. Expect deep dives on guillotines, armbars, triangles, kimuras, and extensive heel-hook defense across multiple volumes.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Guillotine Defense
- Armbar Escape
- Triangle Escape
- Kimura Escape
- Heel Hook Defense
- Von Flue Counter
- Cross Ashi Defense
- 50/50 Defense
- Inside Sankaku Defense
- Knee Slip
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Conceptual, System Based
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 12 hours and 6 minutes
- Volumes: 8
- Released: 2021
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I retained more by mapping each escape to the exact failure point of the submission, which this course makes explicit.
Why John Danaher?
John Danaher is a renowned coach behind champions such as Gordon Ryan, Garry Tonon, and Georges St-Pierre. He emphasizes principle-driven systems over isolated moves. His New Wave approach connects defense to immediate counter-offense. Expect exhaustive detail and terminology. Ideal for serious students comfortable with long-form study.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Ends escapes with counter-attacks that flow logically.
- A thorough best-practices manual for heel-hook defense.
- Great bridge for learners between basic and advanced material.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Triangle and back-defense sections felt underwhelming to some.
- Long intros and dense explanations can feel slow.
- Focuses on fewer submissions with extreme depth, not breadth.
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Smart Alternatives
- Pin Escapes & Turtle Escapes: Go Further Faster – Positional survival foundation before sub-defense depth. (Price: $197.00, 2019)
- Exit The System – More concise, wider sub coverage with counters. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols, 2019)
- Fundamentals of BJJ Escapes (Gi & No Gi) – Beginner-friendly breadth at a lower price. (Price: $127.00, 8 vols, 2020)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View New Wave Jiu Jitsu: A New Philosophy Of Submissions Escapes on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
