How to Do the De La Riva Guard in BJJ
De La Riva guard wraps your outside leg around their lead leg from the outside, hooking behind their knee. Named after Ricardo De La Riva, it's foundational for modern BJJ.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Hook your outside leg around their lead leg
- 2 Your foot hooks behind their knee
- 3 Control their same-side sleeve or ankle
- 4 Use your other foot on their hip for distance
- 5 Attack with sweeps, back takes, or leg locks
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Hook not deep enough
- ⚠️ No sleeve or ankle control
- ⚠️ Letting them pass to the hooked side
- ⚠️ Flat on back instead of angled
- ⚠️ Not threatening attacks
🔄 Variations
- → DLR to berimbolo
- → DLR to single leg X
- → DLR sweeps
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Strip the hook
- → Backstep pass
- → Knee slice
Track Your De La Riva Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the De La Riva Guard and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the De La Riva Guard? ▼
The 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 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 De La Riva Guard? ▼
The 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.