Reverse De La Riva Guard: RDLR System
☰Contents
Reverse De La Riva guard mechanics, RDLR to back take, berimbolo connections, leg lock entries from RDLR, and how RDLR fits into the modern guard system.
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The Position
In RDLR, the guard player's hook goes around the outside of the opponent's near leg (behind the knee), with the foot hooking in front. This is the reverse of DLR, where the hook goes inside. The body position faces slightly more toward the opponent's outside hip.
Key Differences from De La Riva
- RDLR hook is on the outside of the leg (not inside)
- RDLR naturally attacks toward the opponent's back (outside line)
- RDLR is more naturally connected to back takes than sweeps
- RDLR connects more naturally to outside leg lock attacks (outside heel hook)
Primary Attacks
Back Take
The most natural attack from RDLR. The outside hook position naturally creates the angle for a back take — when the opponent's weight shifts to the hooked leg, a push-pull mechanism launches the guard player behind them.
Outside Leg Lock Entry
The RDLR hook position puts the outside of the leg in perfect position for transitioning to outside ashi garami and outside heel hook attacks. This is why RDLR is a favorite among leg lock practitioners.
Berimbolo Connection
RDLR can connect to the berimbolo — the inversion from RDLR position uses the outside hook to control the opponent's movement during the roll.
Defending RDLR
The RDLR hook is more exposed than the DLR hook — it can be attacked (torreando, leg drag) more easily. Quick footwork to "clear" the RDLR hook before it's fully established is the most efficient defense.
Common Mistakes in Reverse De La Riva
Rushing the Setup
Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.
Using Strength Over Technique
Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.
Skipping Drilling
Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.
Ignoring Defensive Reactions
Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.
Related Video
Watch step-by-step breakdowns from black belt instructors:
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📋 Competition Rules
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Common BJJ Problems & FAQ
Your opponent's leg escapes because your hooking leg's ankle is too far away from their hip, creating a gap. To prevent this, ensure your hooking foot's instep is pressed firmly against the outside of their thigh, close to their hip joint, and actively use your knee to drive their leg inward.
Against a larger opponent, focus on using your RDLR hook to off-balance their weight distribution by pulling their knee towards your chest while simultaneously pushing their hip away with your free leg's foot. This creates a lever; as their weight shifts, drive your hooking leg's hip forward and upward to initiate the sweep.
Your upper body should be angled towards your opponent's hip on the side of your hooking leg, with your chest in contact or close proximity to their torso to prevent them from creating space. Your hips should be tucked underneath you and slightly elevated, creating a strong base and preventing them from easily driving forward and passing.
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