Gordon Ryan, one of the most dominant grapplers in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history, is well-known for his passing, back attacks, and top game. But in recent years, his guard work—particularly his half-guard system—has become essential to his overall game.
His instructional video, “Systematically Attacking from Half Guard,” released through BJJFanatics.com, gives deep insight into a position many grapplers overlook or misuse.
Here’s a breakdown of what this instructional teaches, who it’s for, and why it might be one of the best investments for anyone looking to build a modern, aggressive bottom game.
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What Is Gordon Ryan’s Half Guard System?
Unlike traditional “stall and sweep” half-guard styles, Gordon’s system is built around constant off-balancing, under hooks, and structured transitions. He doesn’t just show techniques—he explains how to create dilemmas for your opponent, forcing them to react in predictable ways.
This isn’t “just” half guard—it’s a control-based game that blends into:
- Knee shields and reverse De La Riva
- Deep half transitions
- Underhook get-ups
- Leg entanglements (including entry into saddle and cross ashi)
The focus is on understanding when to switch between options, rather than treating half guard as a static position.
Key Concepts Covered in the Instructional
1. The Underhook Battle
Gordon explains how to win and maintain the underhook, turning it into an offensive anchor for submissions and sweeps. He provides precise details on head positioning, shoulder pressure, and when to release the underhook if necessary.
2. Entering Leg Locks from Half Guard
Leg lock entries are a vast part of Gordon’s game. He shows how to connect half guard with inside sankaku (triangle) entries, cross ashi, and saddle transitions without exposing yourself to passes.
3. Sweeps and Transitions to Top
The instructional includes sweeps focusing less on brute strength and more on timing. These transitions flow naturally into body lock passing or chest-to-chest control once you reverse the position.
4. Linking to Closed Guard and Butterfly
For players who prefer hybrid systems, Gordon shows how to shift between seated butterfly, closed guard, and half guard based on your opponent’s pressure.
5. Positional Dilemmas
True to his John Danaher roots, Gordon teaches how to apply “if-then” frameworks. Every reaction the opponent gives is met with a layered counter, turning the half guard into a position where the bottom player dictates the pace.
Who Is This Instructional For?
- Intermediate to advanced grapplers who want a modern bottom game
- Beginners who feel stuck in half guard and want a roadmap
- No-gi competitors who need leg lock entries from the bottom
- Gi players who wish to improve positional control and direction
You don’t need to be a leg lock expert to benefit—this instructional offers clean positional control that can apply to any ruleset.
Why Gordon’s Instructional Stands Out
- Teaching style: Gordon speaks in clear, structured sequences, with zero fluff. His breakdowns are concept-first and emphasize timing over memorization.
- Conceptual layering: He doesn’t teach moves in isolation. You learn systems.
- Progression: Beginners can follow the early chapters, while advanced players get a deep dive in later sections.
Summary
Gordon Ryan’s “Systematically Attacking from Half Guard” is more than just a collection of techniques; it’s a complete bottom system built on control, connection, and clarity.
Whether you’re a competitor, hobbyist, or instructor, this instructional gives you a structured path to neutralize top pressure and launch real attacks from bottom.
If your half guard feels like a dead-end or you get passed too easily, this series is a game-changer.
Check it out now on BJJ Fanatics
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