How to Do the Reverse De La Riva Guard in BJJ
RDLR hooks the lead leg from the inside between their legs rather than outside like standard DLR. This creates different sweeping angles and is particularly effective for kiss of dragon entries and back takes.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Hook lead leg from inside with your foot
- 2 Foot goes between their legs inside to outside
- 3 Control far collar or sleeve for upper body
- 4 Use inside hook for sweeping and back take entries
- 5 Combine with kiss of dragon technique
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Hooking from outside (that is standard DLR)
- ⚠️ Hook not deep enough through legs
- ⚠️ No upper body grip control
- ⚠️ Not transitioning to attacks
- ⚠️ Allowing them to smash guard
🔄 Variations
- → Kiss of dragon entry
- → RDLR sweep
- → To berimbolo
- → RDLR to X-guard
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Strip inside hook
- → Backstep to clear
- → Pressure down on hook
- → Knee cut through RDLR
Track Your Reverse De La Riva Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the Reverse De La Riva Guard and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Guard Positions
View all →Closed Guard
The closed guard is the most fundamental guard position in BJJ. Your legs are wrapped around your op...
De La Riva Guard
De La Riva guard is named after Ricardo De La Riva. You hook your leg around your opponent's lead le...
Spider Guard
Spider guard uses sleeve grips with your feet on their biceps to control distance and create angles....
Half Guard
Half guard is when you have one of your opponent's legs trapped between yours. It's a versatile posi...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Reverse De La Riva Guard? ▼
The Reverse De La Riva Guard is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Reverse De La Riva Guard works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Reverse De La Riva Guard? ▼
The Reverse De La Riva Guard is typically executed from open guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.