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Mayssa Bastos – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Prodigy

DOB: October 23rd, 1997 Nickname: Pequena Notável Gym: GF Team/Unity JJ Martial Arts Record: 66-7 Notable Championships: IBJJF World Champion, 2x IBJJF No-Gi Champion, 2x No-Gi Pan Champion, 2x IBJJF Pan Champio, Brazilian National Champion, American National Champion, WNO Champion Mayssa Bastos early years in BJJ Maysa Bastos lived most of her childhood living in […]

DOB: October 23rd, 1997
Nickname: Pequena Notável
Gym: GF Team/Unity JJ
Martial Arts Record: 66-7
Notable Championships: IBJJF World Champion, 2x IBJJF No-Gi Champion, 2x No-Gi Pan Champion, 2x IBJJF Pan Champio, Brazilian National Champion, American National Champion, WNO Champion

Mayssa Bastos early years in BJJ

Maysa Bastos lived most of her childhood living in the city of Maricá before moving to Niterói near Rio de Janeiro. Before she got into BJJ, Bastos trained in Judo along with her older brother.

She first started learning Jiu Jitsu in Maricá with Jair Court at a GFTeam school. Bastos quickly grew a passion for Jiu Jitsu and would spend most of her time on the mat.

While training within the state of Rio de Janeiro, Bastos would routinely make trips to different GFTeam schools. Frequently going to the GFTeam headquarters in Meier to train with Julio Cesar.

Her dedication would lead her to being one of the best juvenile blue belts in all of Brazil. In just a short time, Bastos would prove she was one of the best in the world.

Mayssa Bastos runs through the colored belt divisions

When Mayssa was still at the juvenile blue belt, many saw her potential to become one of the world’s best. At this belt, Bastos began making her name on the international scene.

Winning double gold at both the IBJJF Juvenile Pan and European Championship. Then earning second at Juvenile Worlds right before she earned her purple belt.

At purple belt, Mayssa Bastos would continue making a name for herself on the world Jiu Jitsu stage. Her time at purple belt would last two years between 2015 and 2016.

In that time, Bastos would win her first two BJJ world championships. Also winning the European and Pan Championships twice in those years, as well.

Mayssa would continue winning at brown belt as expected. She would spend 1.5 years at brown belt and would come up short of winning the IBJJF World Championship.

But Mayssa Bastos would win the Abu Dhabi World Pro and UAEJJF Grand Slam in Abu Dhabi and Los Angeles.

Mayssa Bastos trains at multiple gyms

Bastos has never been afraid to train at different gyms to improve her skills. While in Brazil, she would travel around training at different GFTeam schools.

Once she was able to travel and train in the US, Mayssa would train at even more gyms. Including GFTeam Orange County on the west coast and also Unity Jiu Jitsu in New York.

At Unity Jiu Jitsu, while training with Murilo Santana. This would become the predominant gym that she would train at to prepare for tournaments in the US.

Mayssa Bastos’ nickname

Mayssa’s nickname is the “Pequena Notável.” This name translates to English as the remarkable little one.

She was dubbed this by a FlashSport photographer named Marcos Furtado. Bastos is small in frame, but she would frequently win absolute divisions throughout competitions in Brazil.

Mayssa Bastos would live up to her nickname in the black belt division and win absolute divisions at black belt.

Mayssa Bastos early black belt run

When Mayssa Bastos won the Abu Dhabi Pro at brown belt in 2018, she would earn her black belt. Julio Cesar would promote her on the podium after 9 years of training.

Bastos didn’t waste any time and would get right back to winning competitions. Her first tournament at black belt would be the American Nationals.

She would go 3-1 at her first black belt competition winning the 48 kg division and 2nd in absolute division. Most notably beating Patti Fontes by advantage and losing by advantage to former world champion Karen Antunes.

After that loss, Mayssa Bastos would not lose again in 2018. Going 18-0 and winning numerous championships. Including EBI 18 and the No-Gi World Championship.

At both events, Mayssa beat Patti Fontes in the finals twice to put her up 4-0 against her rival.

Mayssa Bastos 2019 run

Fresh off of winning her first No-Gi World Championship and EBI 18, Bastos continued proving she was an elite competitor.

Mayssa Bastos would come up short in her first tournament of 2019, losing in the finals of the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam.

The loss didn’t really affect her as Mayssa would go on to win the European Open and the Netherlands Pro. She would continue her tour of Europe and compete in a few more tournaments.

Winning all of her matches by submission at the European Continental and Grand Slam London tournament.

Mayssa Bastoswould then add another Pan American Championship to her collection along with two wins on different BJJ pro shows.

Her next 2 tournaments would be world championship tournaments. The Abu Dhabi World Pro and the IBJJF World Championship.

Pequena Notável would continue to make a name for herself. Going 7-0 in these tournaments to add two more world titles to her resume.

She would end her impressive 2019 by winning the Abu Dhabi Pro Rio de Janeiro tournament and the $20k grand prize.

Mayssa Bastos 2020 run

Due to the global pandemic, Mayssa Bastos wasn’t as active in competition in 2020 due to restrictions. Although in the competitions she did participate in, Bastos went a perfect 6-0.

Winning the Grand Slam Abu Dhabi, European Open, and another Pan American Championship. But arguably her biggest win came against Grace Gundrum at WNO 5.

Gundrum at this point had just reached the rank of black belt. Having gone undefeated in Jiu Jitsu competitions since she was 12 years old.

Bastos would use her experience and shut down Gundrum’s high level guard game to win a referee decision. Topping off her 2020 and started to prepare for a busier 2021.

Mayssa Bastos 2021 run

Bastos’ 2021 did not start how she wanted as she lost in the finals of the World Pro to Brenda Larissa. She would bounce back to win the No-Gi Pan American and Grand Slam Miami tournament before losing at the Pan American.

In normal fashion, Bastos would bounce back from her loss and get ready for two big tournaments. The first would be the WNO 52 kg championships.

Mayssa was in this tournament that included Danielle Kelly, Tammi Musumeci, Alex Ngyuen, Jessa Khan, and Grace Gundrum.

She would win two referee decisions in her first two matches to meet Grace Gundrum again in the finals. Once again, Bastos would use her experience to stop Gundrum’s game to win the inaugural WNO 52 kg title.

Her last tournament of 2021 would be winning her 2nd No-Gi World Championship. Beating both of her opponents with ease with one submission and a 9-0 win.

Mayassa Bastos’ game

Mayssa has one of the most technical guard games in all of Jiu Jitsu. She is a back take wizard that loves to use berimbolo rolls to get there.

Along with her elite back taking skills, Mayssa Bastos’ No-Gi game is actually a heavy top pressure game. Her ability to mix up her style has made her one of the best grapplers in the world.

Mayssa Bastos’ legacy

At only 24 years old, Mayssa Bastos is already one of the most accomplished grapplers in the world. Winning multiple world championships in both the Gi and No-Gi.

She has yet to peak as a competitor and will most likely stay on top for years to come. Bastos’ next goal will be to add an ADCC title to her impressive resume.

Rickson Gracie “The Last Samurai” Gracie Jiu Jitsu Legend

DOB: November 21, 1958 Nickname: The Last Samurai Gym: Gracie Jiu Jitsu Location: Los Angeles, California Martial Records: 11-0(MMA) Notable Championships: 2x Vale Tudo Japan Champion Rickson Gracie’s childhood Rickson Gracie grew up in Rio de Janeiro and is the third oldest son of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu co-founder Hélio Gracie. From a young age, Rickson […]

DOB: November 21, 1958
Nickname: The Last Samurai
Gym: Gracie Jiu Jitsu
Location: Los Angeles, California
Martial Records: 11-0(MMA)
Notable Championships: 2x Vale Tudo Japan Champion

Rickson Gracie’s childhood

Rickson Gracie grew up in Rio de Janeiro and is the third oldest son of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu co-founder Hélio Gracie. From a young age, Rickson was picked as the next representative of the family.

Although before he began to train Jiu Jitsu seriously, Rickson Gracie almost took a bad path in life. During his pre-teen years, Rickson would routinely skip school and hang out in a favela in Ipanema.

In this favela, Gracie befriended some older kids that like to smoke marijuana and surf. Being young and wanting to impress the older kids, Rickson began getting pot for them.

This allowed him to be part of the group, but once they began stealing and using drugs, Rickson Gracie had second thoughts.

He knew staying would lead him down a bad path, so he decided to dedicate his life to training Jiu Jitsu.

Rickson Gracie’s early training

When Rickson was young, his father was his main trainer, until he was a teenager. At this time his older relative Rolls Gracie took over as his teacher.

Rolls was a tough teacher that pushed Rickson hard. Every training session was like a fight and Rolls instilled a finish the fight approach into Rickson Gracie.

Forget about winning by points and always aim to finish his fights by submission. The young Gracie took this mindset to heart and it helped him succeed in Jiu Jitsu competitions.

In Jiu Jitsu competitions, it is said that Rickson never lost a match. He would almost always win his matches by submission and rarely get scored on.

Many at a young age already considered him among the best in the family.

Rickson Gracie’s fights with Rei Zulu

Rickson would have his first vale tudo fight when he was just 19 years old. One day his father’s ex opponent and then friend Waldemar Santana came to visit the gym in Rio.

Santana was working as a fight promoter and was having problems finding his client Rei Zulu a fight. Zulu was allegedly 270-0 in vale tudo fights and was a mountain of a man with an indegionous wrestling background.

Hélio got excited and volunteered Rickson to challenge the undefeated Rei Zulu. Gracie was undersized and less experienced, but his father knew he would win.

His first fight was a grueling war in front of 20k spectators. Rickson Gracie weathered the storm of his bigger opponent for two rounds to the point Zulu was completely exhausted. This would lead to Rickson submitting Zulu with a Rear Naked Choke in the third round.

The two would have a rematch years later in a controversial match, where both men landed illegal blows. Their rematch would also end in Gracie choking out Zulu again.

Rickson Gracie and the beach fight with Hugo Duarte

During the 1980s, Gracie Jiu Jitsu was at war with a rival Vale Tudo school. The Vale Tudo school led by Marco Ruas won the initial meeting and negotiations began for Rickson to fight Ruas.

The fight never happened, but a bout with Hugo Duarte was offered and Rickson accepted. Although there were rumors that Duarte would back out.

So to prevent Duarte from avoiding the fight, Rickson confronted him at a beach in Copacabana. Rickson slapped Duarte to force him to fight and then proceeded to control Duarte on the ground.

This would continue the war between BJJ and Luta Livre, but Rickson would move to the US.

Vale Tudo Japan 1994

After moving to the US in the late 80s to work at the Gracie school in LA, Rickson mainly coached. Although he still stayed in shape and would still compete in various types of grappling tournaments from Jiu Jitsu to Sambo.

Then in 1994, he was contacted by catch wrestling expert Eric Paulsen. Eric was matchmaking for an early MMA tournament to be held in Japan called Vale Tudo Japan 1994.

He asked if Rickson would like to be the Jiu Jitsu representative in the tournament and Gracie gladly accepted.

At the tournament, Rickson would make easy work of his 3 opponents. Finishing his first fight by RNC and his last 2 by punches to win the inaugural tournament.

Rickson Gracie and Yoji Anjo dojo storm

When Rickson won the first Vale Tudo Japan tournament, he began getting challenged by Japanese pro wrestlers. They were trying to make a name for themselves and trying to get publicity and attention on their promotion.

Rickson stated that he would never fight in pro wrestling, where the fights were a work. But if any Japanese wrestler wanted to fight him, they were welcomed to come to LA and try.

One young wrestler by the name of Yoji Anjo would make the trip to the US with members of the Japanese media. He and the promoter of the pro wrestling federation met Rickson at the Gracie academy in LA.

Gracie permitted Anjo and the promoter into the school, but not the Japanese press. When they got to the mat, the fight commenced and Rickson made Anjo regret his decision.

Anjo was brutally beaten for minutes before being choked out. There is a video of the incident, but Rickson has never released the video to the public.

He only showed it to the Japanese press one time to show them what really happened.

Rickson Gracie’s Choke documentary

After winning the first Vale Tudo Japan tournament in 1994, Rickson was asked to fight again at the 1995 tournament. This time, his training would be documented on the famous documentary Choke.

This documentary showed Rickson’s preparation for the tournament along with two other competitors. Just like the previous tournament, Rickson won with ease by submitting all 3 opponents in one night again.

Rickson Gracie and the creation of Pride FC

Through the Vale Tudo Japan tournaments, Rickson Gracie had helped create the early MMA scene in Japan. He helped promote the inaugural Pride Fighting Championship event held at the Tokyo Dome in 1997.

Rickson would fight in the main event against Yoji Anjo’s teacher Nobuhiko Takada. Gracie made easy work of Takada submitting with an armbar in the first round.

Even though Takada lost, Rickson respected his spirit and gave him a rematch at Pride 4. The rematch would have the same result as the first with a win for Rickson by armbar.

Rickson Gracie’s last match and retirement

Rickson’s last match would take place in 2000 against Masakatsu Funaki for the promotion CK. For this fight a special rule set of no elbow or knee strikes were added right before the contest.

Although this new ruleset didn’t really make a difference as Gracie took his opponent down and submitted him.

After this match, Rickson’s oldest son Rockson Gracie died of a drug overdose in December of 2000. The death of his oldest son broke Rickson’s heart and he no longer had the desire to fight.

Instead choosing to teach Jiu Jitsu and spend time with his family.

Rickson Gracie as a teacher

Kron Gracie was his father Rickson’s pupil from the time he could walk. In the early 2010s, Kron wanted to be a world Jiu Jitsu champion just like his dad.

He would get his chance after qualifying for the 2013 ADCC Championship. With his father Rickson in his corner, Kron made his way to China to compete at the event

The young Gracie easily won his first match against Andy Wang before meeting Garry Tonon in an all-time classic match. Kron was down on points before getting Tonon’s back and submitting him in the last few seconds.

Then in the finals, he met Otavio Sousa in the finals. He would win the tournament with a standing guillotine choke as Rickson watched on in his corner.

Rickson considered it one of the most special moments of his life to see Kron win at ADCC.

Rickson Gracie & Ginastica Natural

One of the keys to Rickson’s success was his strength and conditioning. His friend Orlando Conti taught Rickson his style of training called Ginastica Natural.

Ginastica Natural is a mix of natural movements, yoga, and breathing exercises. Rickson Gracie became a master of controlling his breath and heart rate.

He is well known for his famous breathing techniques that he has demonstrated frequently in films and documentaries.

Rickson Gracie earns his red belt

In 2007, Rickson Gracie became only the 50th person to ever receive their red belt in Jiu Jitsu. He was surprised by his older brother Rorion at a seminar along with a few other red belts. Cementing his already great legacy.

Rickson Gracie Legacy

There really isn’t anything to say about Rickson Gracie that hasn’t already been said. He is one of the greatest martial artists that have ever lived.

Not only being one of the best fighters ever, but also one of the best teachers. Rickson Gracie continues teaching the art he loves and has recently created his own federation. The Jiu Jitsu Global Federation.

Grace Gundrum ‘The Silent Assassin’

DOB: May 22nd, 2002 Nickname: The Silent Assassin Gym: 10th Planet Bethlehem Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Martial Arts Record: 4-2(BJJ Black Belt) 34-0-2(Colored Belts) Notable Championships: F2W Strawweight Champion, Quintet Team Championship, Onnit Invitational Champion Grace Gundrum’s entry into Jiu Jitsu Grace Gundrum is the daughter of Chinese natives that immigrated to the US when she […]

DOB: May 22nd, 2002
Nickname: The Silent Assassin
Gym: 10th Planet Bethlehem
Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Martial Arts Record: 4-2(BJJ Black Belt) 34-0-2(Colored Belts)
Notable Championships: F2W Strawweight Champion, Quintet Team Championship, Onnit Invitational Champion

Grace Gundrum’s entry into Jiu Jitsu

Grace Gundrum is the daughter of Chinese natives that immigrated to the US when she was an infant. She grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and was a very active kid.

Playing in numerous sports including Karate with her older brother. One day her older brother decided to quit Karate, but there were still prepaid months on his contract.

So Grace decided to accept the credits and began participating in the small grappling classes. Grace Gundrum quickly developed a passion for grappling and was the thing she loved doing most.

Her first Jiu Jitsu coach was Robert Villafane along with his top students JM Holland and Zach Maslany. Grace would eventually switch her attention fully on Jiu Jitsu and continue training with Villafante for 6 more years.

Grace Gundrum begins training at 10th Planet Bethlehem

When Grace Gundrum was 10, her coaches Maslany and Holland decided to open their own Jiu Jitsu school. Since Gundrum mainly trained under them, she would follow them to their new school.

The two became a 10th Planet affiliate school and would open 10th Planet Bethlehem. This new partnership with 10th Planet would help develop Grace Gundrum’s game to another level.

Nobody in Jiu Jitsu had no idea what she had in store for the scene in the coming years.

Grace Gundrum dominates as a teen

Once Grace started training at 10th Planet Bethlehem, she began to take her training more seriously. She would compete at the majority of No-Gi tournaments on the east coast.

Grace was already levels above the other competitors in the kids divisions, so she began competing in the adult divisions. Before she was even a teenager, Gundrum was beating adult women. Many that were training almost as long as she had been alive.

10th Planet owner Eddie Bravo took notice of her talent and would make her an offer. At just 12 years old, she competed in her first adult super fight at EBI 3.

Easily submitted her opponent and won her next super fights at EBI 4, 6, and 7. Also all by submission.

Grace “the silent assassin” Gundrum

After winning numerous high profile matches, Grace Gundrum was given the nickname “the silent assassin.” This was due to her being very shy and didn’t talk much.

Interviewers are lucky if they can get more than a few words out of her. As Eddie Bravo put it best, “she prefers to let her Jiu Jitsu do the talking.”

Her popularity was increasing rapidly and had a growing fanbase.

Grace Gundrum earns her blue belt

Once the silent assassin turned 16, she would earn her blue belt in Jiu Jitsu. Also during this year, she took up freestyle wrestling to help improve her Jiu Jitsu.

Just like in Jiu Jitsu, Grace Gundrum would excel at wrestling competitions. Reaching the All-American level and placing third at the Junior Women’s World Team Trials in only 1 year of competing.

The biggest Jiu Jitsu tournament that she would enter this year in 2018 was the Onnit Invitational. She was the favorite at this tournament and would again walk through her competition.

Using her patented dead orchard armbar and deadly guard to win the championship and prize money.

Grace Gundrum at Quintet 3

Up until 2019, Grace had never lost a grappling match from the time she was 12 years old going undefeated. At Quintet 3, she would face her toughness challenges as during her time in the colored belts.

Grace was part of team 10th Planet in the first all female team tournament that Quintet had run. Her first opponent was 8-5 MMA fighter Hikaru Aono, who was competing for Team Deep Jewels.

In her opening match, the silent assassin almost landed the patented 10th Planet twister. Unfortunately, she just missed it and the match would end in a draw as time expired.

Her last match in the tournament finals was against 4x BJJ world champion Rikako Yuasa. The two would have arguably the match of the tournament as both were constantly attacking submissions.

This match would also end in a draw, but Team 10th Planet would win the Quintet 3 tournament.

Grace Gundrum’s quick run to black belt.

After Quintet 3, Grace received her purple from her coaches Maslany and Holland in April of 2019. Then promoted to brown belt just 7 months later in November.

Then in July of 2020, she was given her black belt by Eddie Bravo just 2 months after turning 18. Becoming the youngest 10th Planet Black Belt ever and the fastest to reach the rank.

Also the 2nd youngest female to earn her black belt only a short time behind Brazilian Patricia Lage. She had already been an elite black belt competitor for years, but her coaches waited til she was 18.

Now Grace Gundrum was officially a BJJ black belt and ready to take on the best in the world.

Grace Gudrum’s debut at the black belt level

Grace would make her black belt debut at FTW 155 against multiple-time No-Gi world champion Pati Fontes. She would continue her winning ways, submitting the former world champion with an armbar.

Gundrum would then suffer the first loss in 9 years when she faced world champion Mayssa Bastos at WNO 5. Bastos would use her high pressure game to control Grace on the ground and cancel out her guard game.

The silent assassin would bounce back from the loss by arm locking Alex Ngyuen at WNO 8. Then she would get invited to the WNO women’s championship tournament.

This tournament included the who’s who of the world’s best No-Gi female competitors. From Mayssa Bastos, Danielle Kelly, Jessa Khan, and of course Grace.

Grace Gundrum would meet Danielle Kelly in the opening round and earn a decision win over her. Then in her semi final match, she hit the patented 10th Planet twister on Jessa Khan.

That win would set her up in a rematch against Mayssa Bastos. The only competitor to beat Grace in over a decade.

Unfortunately for the silent assassin, Bastos would earn a referee’s decision over Grace Gundrum and win the tournament championship.

Grace Gundrum’s legacy

Before she has turned 21, Grace “the silent assassin” Gundrum has accomplished more than most competitors have in their career. Going an astounding 34-0-2 as a colored belt and beating numerous world champions before she was 18 years old.

Along with being an elite grappler, Grace Gundrum has excelled at academics. Currently pursuing a computer science degree when she isn’t on the mat training.

Grace’s passion for Jiu Jitsu is unmatched and is one of the most special talents of this generation. Her story in Jiu Jitsu is just getting started and we can expect her to accomplish a lot more.

Dagestani Handcuff – Everything You Need To Know

In MMA, Dagestani fighters have been taking over the sport. Using a variety of techniques that they were taught within Sambo and wrestling. One of the signature moves of these fighters has been coined the “Dagestani handcuff.” A move that was used quite frequently by former UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Let’s break down everything […]

In MMA, Dagestani fighters have been taking over the sport. Using a variety of techniques that they were taught within Sambo and wrestling.

One of the signature moves of these fighters has been coined the “Dagestani handcuff.” A move that was used quite frequently by former UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Let’s break down everything about the Dagestani Handcuff. We’re going to go over how it was developed and how the move works. Then we’ll go into various ways to use it, as well as list important tips for locking it in.

When was the Dagestani Handcuff created?

While this technique has been dubbed the Dagestani Handcuff, this isn’t the move’s original name. The original and most common name used for this technique is the hammerlock.

The hammerlock has been used for centuries within amateur wrestling, Sambo, and catch wrestling. In amateur wrestling, the maneuver is used to pin an opponent. Then within submission wrestling, the move would be turned into a submission.

Dagestani MMA fighters have utilized this move, which is why the hammerlock was nicknamed the Dagestani Handcuff.

Today this move has many variations that have different purposes. Everything from pinning an opponent, submission, guard pass, or just to expose an opponent’s face to land strikes.

How does the Dagestai Handcuff work?

The basic function of the Dagestani is quite simple, yet very effective. Using two arms on one of your opponent’s to put their arm behind their back gives you ultimate control over them.

With their arm trapped behind their back, they can do nothing, but struggle to recover control of their arm. This is why every law enforcement agency in the world uses this technique to control a suspect.

Once you lock on this handcuff, you can do just about anything you want to your opponent.

Dagestani Handcuff Armlock

The first Dagestani Handcuff technique we’ll detail is the armlock. This technique starts from when your opponent is in turtle and you’re on top of them.

In amateur wrestling, this is called a hip ride position. Your opponent will try to escape this position by raising up and either sitting out or turning into you.

To prevent that, grab a bodylock around your opponent’s chest. Then drive your shoulder under your opponent’s shoulder, and walk to the side to drag them to the mat.

From here, you’re going to keep them to the mat by taking wrist control and driving forward. They can still stand up, so to prevent this, push their leg down with your free hand and go to S-Mount.

In S-mount, triangle your legs together and drive forward to trap your opponent’s arm/shoulder to the mat. To get the armlock, back step out of S-mount, put two hands on their wrist, and push the arm up. Pushing it towards their shoulder to put intense pressure on their shoulder joint.

Dagestani Handcuff guard pass

The Dagestani Handcuff or hammerlock can also be used to pass your opponent’s guard. From your opponent’s guard, you start the set up by grabbing wrist control, and planting their arm to the mat.

Next, you’re going to bring your head to your opponent’s chin, come to your feet, and drive forward. When you do this it opens space between your opponent’s lower back and the mat.

This gives you the space to reach under your opponent and pass their wrist to your other hand. If they resist, you can walk your hips toward the arm you’re controlling and pass it from there.

Be sure to re-grab their wrist on the pass with a palm up grip to establish the best control. Now with their arm trapped, you can freely pass on that side of your opponent’s body.

Walk your hip towards their shoulder, push their knee down to open their guard, and pass to side-control.

Dagestani Handcuff to ground n pound(from guard)

In MMA, you can do the exact same movement as the guard passing technique to lay down heavy ground n pound. Grab hold of your opponent’s wrist, drive forward, and pass their arm to your other hand.

From here, you can land some strikes, but your opponent can still land a submission with their arm trapped. Especially if they are a good guard player.

So, to prevent this, you can step over their leg and triangle your legs together from half-guard. Their leg and arm is trapped and can do nothing to stop you from landing hard strikes.

Dagestani Handcuff to ground n pound(turtle position)

Instead of going for an armlock like in the first technique detailed above, you can handcuff to land powerful strikes. Start the technique by keeping your hip connected to your opponent’s with no space given.

Next establish control of their near side arm to keep them from getting an underhook on you and stand up. Then your other hand is going to reach under your opponent’s far arm and grab hold of their wrist.

With that wrist control, push their hand to their belly and drive forward to flatten them out. From here, you can throw a variation of strikes to either finish your opponent or open them up for a submission.

Dagestani Handcuff counter

While it seems like it’s almost impossible to get out of this handcuffing technique, there are counters being developed. One of them being this wrist to free your hand from your opponent’s handcuff.

The first step of this escape is to have your hand up defending strikes. You’re already in a bad position, so you have to be defending yourself at all times before it gets worse.

Turtle your head down to try and cover your head as you grab your wrist that the opponent is controlling. Once you grab your wrist, extend your back and straighten out your arm.

Then work to shuck your elbow around your opponent’s shoulder to give you space to turn into them. From here you can either try to recover guard or try a sweep.

Hammerlock from cross body ride

The cross body ride is where you hook your opponent’s leg and turn them to take their back. Instead of taking your opponent’s back you can go for a hammerlock.

You start with your legs triangled around your opponent’s legs going for a calf slicer. They extend their leg to defend and you use that momentum to move to their back.

As you move towards their back, grab wrist control on your opponent along with an underhook on their elbow. Holding their arm to your chest to establish control over it.

Next, use your control to push your opponent’s arm to the mat and towards their far armpit. Then take your arm hooking under your opponent’s arm out and hook from the top and cup their shoulder.

To finish this hammerlock, cup your other hand on top of their shoulder and pull it to your chest.

Tips for doing the Dagestani Handcuff

The Dagestani Handcuff is one of the most powerful controls in grappling, but you have to be flawless with the details. Here are some important tips for locking on the Dagestani Handcuff.

Weight Distribution: When your opponent is in turtle and you’re on top, weight distribution is very important to remember. Keep your weight down and don’t lean forward or your opponent will escape or reverse you.
Hip To Hip: Before going for the handcuff, your hip needs to be glued to your opponent’s hip. Any open space will allow them to escape.
Wrist/Hand Control: As you reach under your opponent don’t just grab their wrist. For the best control, grab at the ridge of their hand near their pinky along with the wrist.
Hand To Stomach: Right after getting control of your opponent’s wrist, bring it to their stomach and glue it to their body. Doing this will ensure that you have complete control over the arm.
Flatten Them Out: After you establish control over your opponent’s arm, step to the side to drag them down, and flatten them out. When they are flattened out, you can either go for your arm lock or pound them out.
Backstep: Remember before going for the Dagestani armlock that you have to backstep out to free the arm. It gives you the space and angle to take your opponent’s arm out and put on the pressure.

Jeff Glover – BJJ Athlete

DOB: April 15th, 1983 Nickname: The Pipelayer, Human Monkey Gym: Paragon Location: Goleta, California Martial Arts Record(s): 34-17(BJJ) Notable Championships: IBJJF: 3x IBJJF Pan Champion(2x brown belt), ADCC Bronze medalist, No-Gi Worlds Silver Medalist, 2nd place EBI Jeff Glover discovers Jiu Jitsu Jeff Glover was born in East LA, California. He discovered Jiu Jitsu when […]

DOB: April 15th, 1983
Nickname: The Pipelayer, Human Monkey
Gym: Paragon
Location: Goleta, California
Martial Arts Record(s): 34-17(BJJ)
Notable Championships: IBJJF: 3x IBJJF Pan Champion(2x brown belt), ADCC Bronze medalist, No-Gi Worlds Silver Medalist, 2nd place EBI

Jeff Glover discovers Jiu Jitsu

Jeff Glover was born in East LA, California. He discovered Jiu Jitsu when he was 16 years old and wanted to dedicate his life to training.

Glover began training at Paragon Jiu Jitsu under Professor Richard “Franjinha” Miller. Professor Franjinha became a mentor to Jeff and Paragon has been his home gym for over 20 years.

Jeff would become a gym rat and would spend hours a day on the mat. Training alongside another future BJJ innovator Bill “The Grill” Cooper and Franjinha’s first black belt Tyrone Glover.(no relation)

Jeff Glover’s early success in BJJ competitions

Not too long after he began training, Glover would begin competing and have immediate success. Spending most all of his weekends going to compete at various Jiu Jitsu competitions.

Since this was early in Jeff’s career and Jiu Jitsu wasn’t profitable, he would take part-time jobs to pay for competitions. One job that Jeff would have for a short time was a professional plumber. This would earn one of his many nicknames, “The Pipelayer.”

In competitions, Glover was not afraid to test himself. It was normal for him to enter absolute divisions going against some of the biggest and most skilled competitors.

Glover being a featherweight, would get a lot of attention for entering absolute divisions, which was rarely done during this time. He would routinely win in absolute divisions and get crowds into his matches.

Jeff Glover’s brown belt run

In late 2004/early 2005, Glover would earn his brown belt and was ready to take his game to the next level. Between 2005 and 2006 were Glover’s most successful years as a colored belt competitor.

He would win back to back gold medals at the IBJJF Pan Championships. This would lead to Franjinha Miller to award Jeff with his black belt.

Glover’s hard work had paid off and he was ready to take on the world’s best.

Jeff Glover’s early run as a black belt

Fresh off of receiving his black belt, Jeff Glover would immediately go right back into competing. This time against the world’s best at black belt.

He would compete against some future legends in the sport from Robson Moura to Bibiando Fernandes.

In 2007, Glover would qualify for his first ADCC Championship in the 66 kg division. Jeff would win his first match by flying triangle that brought the crowd to their feet.

His next match would be a loss by points against 2x ADCC champion Leo Vieira, but Jeff made his statement.

During his 2008 run, Glover came up just short of winning the No-Gi championship. Losing by advantage to multiple time champion Cobrinha Charles.

Then in 2009, Jeff would make his 2nd ADCC appearance going 1-2. Losing by points against Ryan Hall and UFC vet Rany Yahya.

In between these major championships, The Pipelayer would make frequent appearances at Grapplers Quest events. Jeff holds the Grapplers Quest record of 27 tournament wins in 8 years of competing with the organization.

Jeff Glover wins bronze at ADCC 2011

During the late 2010s, Jeff Glover would suffer numerous finger injuries. These injuries to his fingers would force him to compete in more No-Gi events than Gi events.

After taking time off due to injuries in 2010, Glover would come back to competitions in 2011. Starting the year off by winning the ADCC trials with 3 submission wins.

The 2011 ADCC Championship would be his best showing ever at the grappling competition. He would win his first two matches with one by points and the other by his patented darce choke.

Glover would lose a close rematch against Cobrinha in the semis to set up another rematch with Robson Moura. This time, Jeff would submit Moura with a guillotine choke to earn 3rd place in the 66 kg division.

Jeff Glover’s run in pro grappling

During the 2010s professional grappling events began to get popular and Glover competed at many of the events. Competing at early Metamoris events and the first Eddie Bravo Invitational.

Probably the most notable of these pro matches was a surprise match he participated in at Metamoris 4. At the event, Glover was working as a commentator, when it was announced there was a surprise match.

Beret Yoshida came out to the mat to face a mystery opponent. It turns out that the mystery opponent was Jeff Glover.

He took off his suite and had spats under his dress pants. The two would have a fun match that would end in a draw.

Then later in 2014, Glover would compete at the first EBI event. Winning his first 2 matches by kneebar before losing in the finals against Geo Martinez.

Jeff Glover’s last years of competing

Glover would compete a handful of times between 2015-2017 before he stopped competing. He lost in his last appearance at ADCC 2015 in a rematch to Geo Martinez.

Then he would compete sporadically between 2016 and 2017. Most notably competing against 10x world champion Bruno Malfacine at Metamoris 7 to a draw.

Jeff Glover the innovator

Jeff “the human monkey” has been widely touted for his style and innovations he has made in Jiu Jitsu. Chris Hauter was quoted as competing against Glover was “like trying to grapple a monkey or a cat. He never loses his balance.”

Glover’s amazing balance was due to the training he would do with a yoga ball. To improve his balance, Glover would get on top of a yoga ball and roll from position to position. Many grapplers have adopted this technique to work on their balance.

He has also developed and innovated quite a few different Jiu Jitsu techniques. Particularly the deep half guard, darce choke, triangle choke and his patented donkey guard.

Jeff was one of the first grapplers to popularize the deep half guard. Using a variety of different methods to get under his opponent and sweep them.

The Pipelayer would also develop numerous entries to hit a darce choke. Including hitting the move to escape side control or dive into it from top position.

His triangle choke is like no other in Jiu Jitsu. Jeff developed his patented hanging triangle that has become widely taught in most academies.

Then there is the donkey guard. Glover developed this guard as a bit of a joke and to also get fans into his match.

Jeff Glover the personality

Glover is also considered to be one of the biggest personalities in all of Jiu Jitsu. Famously creating an online reality show called Glover’s Travels.

A series from Budo Videos, where Jeff would go around the world to different Jiu Jitsu gyms. Learning new techniques and making friends with numerous top instructors.

Jeff has also worked as a color commentator for many Jiu Jitsu events and is a popular podcast guest. Frequently appearing on some of the biggest Jiu Jitsu podcasts in the world.

One other thing that Glover is known for is being an advocate and user of cannabis. Most notably taking part in the first BJJ/cannabis event High Rollerz. Where he smoked a joint with his opponent as Eddie Bravo was the referee.

Jeff Glover’s legacy

Jeff “The Pipelayer/Human Monkey” Glover has contributed so much to the art of Jiu Jitsu. His passion led him to not only being one of the best competitors, but one of the best teachers.

Glover has developed so many phenomenal techniques that have innovated the sport. Creating numerous instructional videos that are widely popular.

Now that Jeff has retired from competition, he continues to teach Jiu Jitsu at his home Paragon. Sharing his knowledge and helping his students develop their skills.

Garry Tonon – BJJ Athlete

DOB: September 12th, 1991 Birthplace: New Jersey Nickname: The Lion Killer Gym: Renzo Gracie/DDS/Ocean County BJJ(2005-2020), New Wave Jiu Jitsu(present) Martial Arts Background: Jiu Jitsu Martial Arts Record(s): 71-25(BJJ) 6-0(MMA”) Titles: 2x IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, IBJJF World Champion, 5x Pan Championship, 5x EBI Champion Garry Tonon’s entry into Jiu Jitsu Garry Tonon is a […]

DOB: September 12th, 1991
Birthplace: New Jersey
Nickname: The Lion Killer
Gym: Renzo Gracie/DDS/Ocean County BJJ(2005-2020), New Wave Jiu Jitsu(present)
Martial Arts Background: Jiu Jitsu
Martial Arts Record(s): 71-25(BJJ) 6-0(MMA”)
Titles: 2x IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, IBJJF World Champion, 5x Pan Championship, 5x EBI Champion

Garry Tonon’s entry into Jiu Jitsu

Garry Tonon is a New Jersey native that started amateur wrestling when he was in 5th grade. He enjoyed grappling and would be introduced to Jiu Jitsu after a friend invited him to a local BJJ tournament.

Tonon would become really interested in the martial art and would start training with his friend at his academy. Since Garry had wrestling experience, he was a natural at Jiu Jitsu and wanted to compete.

His time at his friend’s gym would be short as the gym was more MMA oriented. This would lead Garry to look for another gym that was more sport Jiu Jitsu based to help with his goal.

The next gym that Garry Tonon would train at was Ocean County Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Owned by Renzo Gracie black belt Tom deBlass, which was actually closer to Tonon’s home.

Garry Tonon’s early competitive career

At deBlass’ gym, Tonon would immediately become one of his top students. Garry never missed a class and was on the mat constantly whenever he wasn’t in school.

Tom saw that Garry really had a desire to become a competitor and became deBlass’ pupil. Along with training under deBlass, Garry would also go with his coach to train with his friend Ricardo Almeida.

Almeida, who was also a Renzo Gracie black belt and a 4x ADCC medalist. Training with two high level black belts early on gave Tonon an edge in competition.

He would compete in both Gi and No-GI at tournaments nearly every week. Then at 17 after a few years of training, Tonon’s work would pay off. Winning the IBJJF World Championship at juvenile blue belt.

This led to Garry earning his purple belt right around the time he graduated high school. At purple belt, Tonon would win a Pan No-Gi Championship while attending Rutger University.

Garry Tonon’s brown belt run

The lion killer would only be promoted to brown belt only a little over a year after earning his purple belt. At this time he was a full time competitor, student, and a coach at deBlass’ gym.

Tonon would also have his own gym Brunswick BJJ. Even though Tonon had a lot going on, this was a time in his life of struggle. Even though he was succeeding at competitions, Garry had no money and would often sleep in the gym.

Although he wasn’t deterred from his goal and would continue winning Jiu Jitsu competitions. This was also around the time that he began traveling to New York with deBlass to train with John Danaher.

In 2011 and 2012, Tonon won the IBJJF No-Gi World Championship and the Pan Championship. This dominant run at brown belt would lead to deBlass giving Garry his black belt.

Garry Tonon’s ADCC debut

Before earning his black belt, Garry Tonon had already qualified for the 2013 ADCC Championship in Beijing, China. The competition took place just a month after he was awarded his black belt.

Tonon would make quite a debut at the competition. Winning his first match by RNC to face Kron Gracie, which would become arguably one of the greatest matches ever.

Both Tonon and Gracie would have an action pact match that everyone in attendance would stop and watch. Kron would get Tonon in a deep armbar, but somehow got out to score a takedown and take Gracie’s back.

He was up by points with only a minute left with a tight RNC locked in. Somehow Kron was able to escape, take Garry’s back and submit him with only seconds left. It was the best match of the tournament and maybe in ADCC history.

Even though Garry lost, he would compete against the absolute division as a last minute replacement. Fighting valiantly, but losing to Cyborg Abreu and Marcus Almeida, who outweighed him by over 20 kgs.

The BJJ world now knew who Garry Tonon was.

Garry Tonon’s run in EBI

For the next year after the ADCC tournament, Tonon would compete in numerous pro grappling tournaments. This would lead him to being invited to the inaugural Eddie Bravo Invitational event in 2014.

During this period of time, Garry had been working closely with John Danaher. Learning his patented leg lock system and would introduce this facet of his game at EBI 1.

Garry would clean out the 77 kg division and submit all 4 of his opponents. Three by heel hook and one by RNC to become the first EBI champion

In 2015, he competed at 2 more EBI at EBI 3 and EBI 5. At EBI 3, Tonon would successfully defend his 77 kg title and add the 70 kg title to his collection at EBI 5.

He along with his former teammate Eddie Cummings success at EBI would lead to their team’s nickname. The Danaher Death Squad.

Tonon would represent DDS at EBI 6, EBI 9, and EBI 13. All of which Garry would win.

As of now Garry holds the EBI record for most wins and championships.

Garry Tonon’s other ADCC appearances

When Garry Tonon wasn’t crushing the competition at EBI tournaments, he competed at 3 ADCC events. The championships that were held in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

At his second ADCC appearance in 2015, Tonon would go 1-2 at the tournament. Beating Dillon Danis by heel hook before losing to Lucas Lepri and Vinny Magalhaes.

In 2017, Tonon would do a little better at this tournament going 2-2 in 4 matches, but missed the podium.

Then finally in 2019, Tonon would finally reach the ADCC podium. Placing 3rd after beating Dante Leonmy heel hook.

Garry Tonon’s notable BJJ matches

The Lion Killer has had some high profile Jiu Jitsu matches in his career. Everyone from Imanari, Lachlan Giles, Vinny Magalhaes, Gilbert Burns, Dillon Danis, and Vagner Rocha.

By far one of the most talked about and controversial was against MMA fighter and leg lock specialist Rousimar Palhares. Toquinho has had controversy follow him throughout his MMA career and this BJJ match was no different.

Palhares came into the match nearly 10 kgs overweight and possibly on enhancement supplements. The fight still happened and Tonon attacked Palhares throughout the match, but the Brazilian muscled out of everything.

This match was sub only and would end in a draw at the time limit.

Garry Tonon’s MMA debut

Through 2013-2017, Tonon was the busiest grappler in professional Jiu Jitsu. Having competed in all of the top promotions and won numerous titles.

Garry would then make the transition to MMA in 2018. Signing with the Singapore based MMA promotion ONE Championship.

Since John Danaher was the grappling coach for numerous top MMA fighters like GSP, the transition was easy for Garry.

He would make his MMA debut at ONE’s event “Iron Will” in Bangkok, Thailand. Tonon would easily win his debut with a TKO in the second round.

Tonon would fight two more times in 2018 and win both fights by submission. In 2019, the Lion Killer would have two more MMA fights and earn two more finishes.

Then after Covid-19 protocols were lifted, Tonon would fight again in December of 2020. Winning a decision and boosting his record to 6-0.

DDS moves to Puerto Rico

Around the time of Tonon’s last fight, the BJJ community would learn that DDS was moving. The team was going to move out of Renzo Gracie’s blue basement and set up shop in Puerto Rico.

The initial goal of John Danaher and his team was to make Puerto Rico a hub for grappling and MMA. The best in the world would travel to a beautiful island to get world class training.

The DDS breakup

Immediately following the DDS team’s unsuccessful move to Puerto Rico, the team moved again. This time they would move to Austin, Texas, but they wouldn’t be forming a new gym together.

It was announced in July of 2021, that the DDS team was going their separate ways. Garry Tonon, Gordon Ryan, and John Danaher would form a team, while Craig Jones, Nicky Ryan, and Nick Rodriguez formed another.

The team Gordon, Garry and John would create would be known as New Wave Jiu Jitsu. Currently both New Wave Jiu Jitsu and the B Team are located in Austin, Texas with a cordial relationship.

Garry Tonon’s legacy

As a professional grappler, Garry Tonon has done it all. Having won numerous championships and beaten the world’s best grapplers to create quite a legacy within Jiu Jitsu.

Now as a MMA fighter, Tonon is currently creating a legacy for himself within that sport. Currently holding a record of 6-0 with a ONE Featherweight Championship bout that will take place between now and 2022.

The Lion Killer is only in his early 30s and has many more years to add to his legacy. Attempting to build a world class Jiu Jitsu school and add MMA championships to his legacy.