The Reverse De La Riva System (Musumeci) – In-Depth Review

A deep, organized RDLR playbook that works in gi and no-gi.

The Bottom Line

You learn control, timing, back takes, and submissions in a clear order. The boxes concept keeps you on track mid-roll. It is dense, so plan focused study blocks.

⚡️ Quick facts

Best for: Detail lovers

Skip if: Hate long lectures

Tech focus: Reverse De La Riva, Kiss Of The Dragon, Berimbolo

Biggest takeaway: Control before attacks

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What You'll Learn

Mikey lays out RDLR in four volumes: control, timing, back takes, and submissions. The framework organizes attacks into boxes so you always know the next step.
It covers gi and no-gi options with emphasis on back exposure via kiss of the dragon and bolo-style transitions.

Primary Techniques You'll Drill

  • Reverse De La Riva
  • Kiss Of The Dragon
  • Berimbolo
  • Triangle
  • Omoplata
  • Kneebar
  • Collar Sleeve

Format & Level

  • Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
  • Skill level: All Levels
  • Format: Both
  • Runtime: 2 hours and 34 minutes
  • Volumes: 4

Should You Buy It?

Wait for daily deal. I got more value by watching one chapter, drilling it a week, and only then moving on to the next box.

Why Mikey Musumeci?

Mikey Musumeci is a multiple-time IBJJF world champion known for obsessive detail and highly structured guard systems. His teaching style emphasizes first principles and timing.

Community feedback

Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.

😍 Why People Love It

  • Typical Mikey detail that upgrades even basic sweeps.
  • Clear frames and hooks concept makes RDLR feel controlled.
  • The back take box ties the system together nicely.

🤔 Common Criticisms

  • The detail density is high and lectures run long.
  • Pricey compared with compact RDLR sets.

Smart Alternatives

Sources & References

Official listing: View The Reverse De La Riva System on BJJ Fanatics

Additional References

Your next step

You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.

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