A complete, step-by-step no-gi leg lock system that links entries to high-control finishes.
The Bottom Line
You will learn how to connect single leg X, cross ashi, and 50/50 with reliable finishes. The focus is control first, so your partners feel stuck before a heel is exposed. You will not get a random move dump or gi-specific grips; everything is organized for live rounds.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Leg lock learners
Skip if: You avoid no-gi
Tech focus: Single Leg X, Cross Ashi, Inside Heel Hook, Outside Heel Hook, 50/50, Toe Hold, Straight Ankle Lock
Biggest takeaway: Entries chain into safe finishes
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What You'll Learn
New Wave heavyweights are feared for leg locks, and Big Dan is one of the room's most prolific finishers. This four-volume course organizes entries and finishes from single leg X, cross ashi, and 50/50.
If you want one Dan Manasoiu course that builds a complete, modern no-gi leg system with control-first mechanics, this is it.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Single Leg X
- Cross Ashi
- 50/50
- Inside Heel Hook
- Outside Heel Hook
- Toe Hold
- Straight Ankle Lock
- Double Trouble
- Leg Lace
- Reverse Figure Four
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: No-Gi
- Volumes: 4
- Released: 2024
Should You Buy It?
Buy it now. I found the system’s emphasis on control-first positioning makes heel exposure safer to practice and easier to finish consistently.
Why Dan Manasoiu?
Dan 'Big Dan' Manasoiu is a New Wave standout under John Danaher. He is 6'7 and competes at 99+ kg. He won Sub Hunter Pro 84 and dominated several ADCC Opens with high submission rates. In 2024 he earned ADCC bronze, cementing his status as a top heavyweight prospect. Despite his size, he is praised for technical leg lock mechanics and mount pressure. He frequently shares teaching clips and trains in Austin, Texas.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Technically sharp and mobile for a giant; his pressure makes defenses crumble.
- Inside heel hooks come on fast; people say tap early or risk damage.
- Fans call his teaching clear and professional on Instagram.
- Viewed as a legit threat in opens with lots of finishes.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some argue New Wave heavyweights lean on size advantages.
- Critics say the Danaher circle repackages known concepts with flashy names.
- Pointed to inconsistency against elite opponents in a few high-profile matches.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- Under Pressure: Leg Entanglements by Brian Glick – Control-focused leg system from a Danaher black belt. (Price: $197.00)
- Battle Tested Down Under Leglocks by Craig Jones – Proven competition entries and finishes at a lower price. (Price: $79.00)
- Understanding The K-Guard by Jason Rau – Modern leg-entry hub that pairs well with Big Dan. (Price: $127.00)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Milk the System: Leg Locks From Beginner To Advanced on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
