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De La Riva Guard

Quick Introduction​

De La Riva (DLR) guard is a revolutionary open guard where you hook your leg behind your opponent's knee while controlling their opposite sleeve. Named after Ricardo De La Riva, this guard offers exceptional sweeping power and direct paths to back control.

Position Overview​

Station: Guard System > Open Guard

Achieved from: Closed guard opening, spider guard transitions, standing guard entries, opponent standing to pass

Leads to: Sweeps to top position, back takes, berimbolo entries, transitions to x-guard, reverse de la riva

De La Riva Guard Types (4 Main Variations)​

🎯 Classic De La Riva (Standard)​

Objective

Maximum control of opponent's base and posture; create powerful sweeps; threaten back takes

Main Characteristic

DLR hook behind their knee, opposite sleeve controlled, other foot on hip or bicep

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Opponent standing or one knee up
  2. Hook your leg behind their knee (outside position)
  3. Control their opposite sleeve with your hand
  4. Place other foot on their hip or bicep
  5. Pull sleeve while pushing with hip foot
  6. Break their base and posture

Tactical Advantage

Controls their base completely; they cannot step back; sweeps are high-percentage; natural back-take position; competition standard

⚔️ Reverse De La Riva (RDLR) (Opposite Side)​

Objective

Control from opposite angle; setup inverted techniques; defend against knee slice passes

Main Characteristic

Hook behind knee on same side as grip (opposite of classic DLR)

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Hook behind their knee (same side as your grip)
  2. Control same-side sleeve or collar
  3. Other leg frames on their opposite hip
  4. Create opposite angle of control
  5. Setup sweeps or inversions
  6. Popular in modern competition

Tactical Advantage

Different angle confuses opponent; setup for berimbolo and crab ride; defends knee slice passes; modern guard game essential

🔄 Collar-Sleeve DLR (Posture Control)​

Objective

Maximum posture control combined with DLR hook; increase submission threats; control more dominant

Main Characteristic

DLR hook plus collar grip (instead of just sleeve)

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Establish DLR hook behind knee
  2. Grab their collar with DLR-side hand
  3. Other hand controls opposite sleeve
  4. Foot on hip or bicep
  5. Pull collar to break posture forward
  6. Attack sweeps with broken posture

Tactical Advantage

Better posture control; triangle setups easier; harder for them to defend; gi-specific power; controls their upper body completely

🛡️ Sit-Up DLR (Active)​

Objective

More active and aggressive DLR; easier back takes; less defensive

Main Characteristic

Sitting up with DLR hook while maintaining sleeve control

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. DLR hook behind their knee
  2. Sit up toward them (active posture)
  3. Maintain sleeve control
  4. Use free hand for collar or underhook
  5. Climb for back take
  6. Or sweep from sit-up position

Tactical Advantage

Direct path to back; more aggressive approach; harder to pass; modern competition favorite; less grip-dependent

Important Observations (General Rules)​

Core Principles​

  1. 🎯 Hook is sacred - DLR hook controls their base completely
  2. 💪 Opposite sleeve essential - Cross-control creates off-balance
  3. ⏱️ Hip foot creates angle - Other foot on hip pushes/frames
  4. 🔄 Active hook adjustment - Constantly reposition hook deeper
  5. 🎮 Variation selection - Choose based on their stance:
    • Classic DLR → Against standing passes
    • Reverse DLR → Against knee slice attempts
    • Collar-Sleeve → When need posture control
    • Sit-Up DLR → For back takes

Connection to Theories​

Applying core principles:

  • Base Destruction: DLR hook removes one leg from their base
  • Lever Systems: Hook behind knee = longest lever for sweeps
  • Grip Cross-Control: Opposite sleeve creates diagonal imbalance
  • Hip Control: Your hook controls their hip/leg directly

Related to guard dynamics: DLR exemplifies "guard as destabilization" - making their base unreliable rather than controlling distance.

Common Mistakes​

⚠️ Shallow hook - Hook must be deep behind knee

⚠️ Wrong sleeve - Must control opposite sleeve (cross-control)

⚠️ Static hook - Need to constantly adjust depth and angle

⚠️ Flat on back - Should be on side or sitting up

⚠️ No hip pressure - Other foot must push on hip

⚠️ Letting them sit - DLR works best against standing/posting

⚠️ Forgetting to extend - Hook leg should extend to create leverage

🥋 Essential Sweeps from De La Riva​

Classic DLR Sweep (Overhead Sweep)​

Setup Position: Classic DLR with sleeve and hip control

Execution:

  1. DLR hook deep behind their knee
  2. Opposite sleeve controlled firmly
  3. Other foot on their hip
  4. Extend DLR hook leg (push them up)
  5. Pull sleeve while pushing hip
  6. They flip over your hook
  7. Come to top position or take back

Key Details:

  • Hook extension provides lift
  • Timing with their forward weight
  • Pull sleeve strongly
  • Follow through to top or back
  • Often called "overhead sweep"

Tactical Use: Highest percentage DLR sweep; creates back-take opportunity; works gi and no-gi with adaptations

Berimbolo to Back​

Setup Position: DLR or RDLR with opponent defending sweeps

Execution:

  1. DLR hook established
  2. Invert underneath them (roll to shoulder)
  3. Hook remains behind their knee
  4. Rotate underneath taking their back
  5. Come to back mount
  6. Secure hooks and control

Key Details:

  • Requires flexibility and timing
  • Modern high-level technique
  • Hook never releases
  • Full rotation underneath
  • Competition game-changer

Tactical Use: Direct path to 4 points + back control; dominant in modern competition; requires technical drilling

See back mount

Balloon Sweep​

Setup Position: DLR with collar grip

Execution:

  1. DLR hook behind knee
  2. Collar grip established
  3. Other foot on their hip/thigh
  4. Pull collar while extending both legs
  5. They fly over you (balloon effect)
  6. Land in mount or top position

Key Details:

  • Collar grip essential (gi only)
  • Both legs extend simultaneously
  • Strong pull on collar
  • Timing when they pressure forward
  • Very satisfying when landed

Tactical Use: Classic DLR technique; high percentage in gi; creates mount opportunity; surprise element

Kiss of Dragon​

Setup Position: RDLR with inversion beginning

Execution:

  1. Reverse DLR position
  2. Begin inverting to side
  3. Grab their far leg/belt
  4. Roll through taking back
  5. Emerge on their back
  6. Secure position

Key Details:

  • Advanced technique
  • Requires flexibility
  • Full inversion needed
  • Timing critical
  • Modern competition technique

Tactical Use: Spectacular back-take; difficult to defend; high-level competition technique; requires significant drilling

🎓 Training Progressions​

Solo Drills​

  1. DLR Hook Placement (20 reps each leg)

    • Practice hooking around post/partner's leg
    • Build muscle memory for proper depth
    • Essential foundational skill
    • Develop hook positioning feel

  2. Hip Escape with DLR (10 reps each side)

    • Maintain DLR hook while creating angles
    • Practice staying off flat back
    • Build core strength
    • Foundation for all DLR movement

  3. Berimbolo Inversion Drill (5 reps each side)

    • Practice inversion motion solo
    • Build flexibility and core strength
    • Can use wall for support initially
    • Essential for advanced DLR game

  4. DLR Sit-Up Drill (15 reps)

    • From flat to sit-up while maintaining hook
    • Builds core and hip flexor strength
    • Foundation for sit-up DLR
    • Develop active guard posture

Partner Drills​

Level 1: Position Establishment (Cooperative)

  • Partner stands, you establish DLR
  • Practice hook depth and sleeve control
  • Hold position 30 seconds
  • 10 reps focusing on proper mechanics
  • Build foundational understanding

Level 2: Sweep Sequences (Light Resistance 25%)

  • Practice classic sweep and balloon sweep
  • Partner gives light resistance
  • Focus on timing and leverage
  • Flow for 5 minutes
  • Develop movement patterns

Level 3: Positional Sparring (50%)

  • Start in DLR, you attack/they defend
  • 50% resistance
  • Focus: Maintaining hook, timing sweeps
  • 3-minute rounds
  • Build timing and reactions

Level 4: Live Rolling (100%)

  • Pull DLR in rolling
  • Full resistance
  • Focus: Entries, sweeps, transitions
  • Competition preparation
  • Real application under pressure

Common Drill Sequences​

Drill 1: DLR Entry Flow

  1. Standing opponent
  2. Sit to guard
  3. Establish DLR hook
  4. Get sleeve control
  5. Place hip foot
  6. Reset and repeat - 10 reps
  7. Build entry speed

Drill 2: DLR Sweep Chain

  1. Attempt classic DLR sweep
  2. If defended → transition to berimbolo
  3. If defended → balloon sweep
  4. If defended → x-guard entry
  5. Continuous flow
  6. 5 minutes building combinations

Drill 3: DLR to Back Take

  1. DLR position established
  2. Sit-up DLR variation
  3. Climb to back mount
  4. Secure hooks
  5. Flow for precision
  6. 10 reps each side

Drill 4: Guard Transitions

  1. Start in DLR
  2. Transition to RDLR
  3. Transition to x-guard
  4. Back to DLR
  5. Continuous flow
  6. 3 minutes building connectivity

See guard connection training

Progression Timeline​

Following training methods:

  • Week 1-2: DLR hook placement, basic mechanics
  • Week 3-4: Classic sweep, maintaining position
  • Week 5-8: Balloon sweep, sit-up variations
  • Month 3-4: Berimbolo introduction, live application
  • Month 6+: Competition use, advanced entries, teaching others
  • Blue Belt+: Complete DLR system with all variations

🔧 Troubleshooting Guide​

Problem: Can't Get Hook Deep Enough​

Solutions:

  1. Use your hands to help position initially
  2. Angle your hip away (not flat)
  3. Kick leg through deeper
  4. Practice solo drilling hook placement
  5. Ensure hooking with shin, not just foot
  6. May need hip flexibility work

Problem: They Keep Removing Hook​

Solutions:

  1. Hook deeper behind knee
  2. Keep hook leg extended (creates pressure)
  3. Control their balance with grips
  4. Transition to RDLR or x-guard
  5. Don't let them sit back
  6. Active hook adjustment constant

Problem: Can't Hit Sweeps​

Solutions:

  1. Timing is everything - sweep when they step
  2. Break their base with grips first
  3. Ensure hook is deep
  4. Hip foot must push/frame
  5. Chain multiple sweep attempts
  6. Create reactions with threats first

Problem: Getting Passed Easily​

Solutions:

  1. Don't stay flat on back
  2. Better initial grip establishment
  3. Keep hip foot active (framing)
  4. Transition guards when hook threatened
  5. Practice guard retention
  6. Active hip movement prevents passing

Problem: Berimbolo Too Difficult​

Solutions:

  1. Normal - advanced technique
  2. Build flexibility with daily stretching
  3. Solo drill inversion repeatedly
  4. Break down into steps
  5. Use sit-up DLR for back takes first
  6. May take 6-12 months to develop
  7. Not essential for DLR success

🔄 Attack Chains & Combinations​

DLR Sweep → Failed → Berimbolo → Back​

  1. Attempt classic DLR sweep
  2. They defend by sitting back
  3. Use their reaction to invert
  4. Berimbolo to their back
  5. Secure back mount
  6. Reaction-based attack

DLR → X-Guard → Sweep​

  1. DLR hook established
  2. They defend by stepping around
  3. Add second hook (creates x-guard)
  4. Sweep from x-guard
  5. Guard transition creates success
  6. Natural combination

See x-guard

Balloon Sweep → Mount → Submission​

  1. Execute balloon sweep
  2. Land directly in mount
  3. Maintain control
  4. Attack collar choke or armbar
  5. Complete combination
  6. Point scoring + submission

RDLR → Kiss of Dragon → RNC​

  1. Reverse DLR position
  2. Invert with kiss of dragon
  3. Take back mount
  4. Secure rear naked choke
  5. High-level competition sequence

See rear naked choke

💡 Advanced Concepts​

DLR Grip Variations​

Classic Sleeve + Hip

  • Most common setup
  • Opposite sleeve control
  • Other foot on hip
  • Foundation for all DLR

Collar + Sleeve

  • Stronger posture control
  • Triangle setups available
  • More dominant position
  • Gi-specific advantage

Belt Grip + Sleeve

  • Very strong control
  • Common in competition
  • Prevents them backing away
  • Alternative to collar

Ankle Pick + Sleeve

  • Grabbing their opposite ankle
  • Strong sweeping leverage
  • Prevents posting
  • Advanced variation

See detailed grip strategies

DLR Guard Retention​

When Hook Getting Removed:

  1. Immediately transition to other guard
  2. Don't fight losing battle
  3. RDLR often available
  4. X-guard transition natural
  5. Spider guard as backup
  6. Fluid guard transitions essential

When They Back Away:

  1. Follow with hook (extend)
  2. Sit up to maintain distance
  3. Transition to standing guard
  4. Use grips to prevent separation
  5. Modern guards emphasize following

Against Toreando Pass:

  1. DLR excellent defense
  2. Hook prevents spin
  3. Follow their movement with hook
  4. Sleeve control stops completion
  5. Counter-sweep as they pass

Competition Strategy​

Points Consideration:

  • Sweeps score 2 points
  • Back takes score 4 points
  • Advantages for near-sweeps
  • Berimbolo very high-scoring (back mount)
  • Balance offense with safety

Tactical Approach:

  • Pull guard to DLR quickly
  • Establish hook before they settle
  • Constant sweep attempts (advantages)
  • Berimbolo if skilled enough
  • Transitions to multiple guards
  • Never stay static in DLR

DLR vs Different Body Types​

Against Larger Opponents:

  • DLR especially effective (leverage)
  • Balloon sweep works well
  • Use weight against them
  • Technical precision required

Against Smaller Opponents:

  • May be faster at removing hook
  • Quicker transitions needed
  • Berimbolo very effective
  • Chase their movement

Against Flexible Opponents:

  • Harder to sweep (good base)
  • Focus on back takes
  • Berimbolo more available
  • Patience in setup

Against Strong Grips:

  • Breaking your grips harder
  • Establish first (proactive)
  • Mix DLR with other guards
  • Grip fighting critical

Gi vs No-Gi Differences​

Gi DLR:

  • Primary application
  • Stronger grips available
  • Collar/sleeve/belt options
  • Extremely effective
  • Competition standard

No-Gi DLR:

  • Still functional
  • Wrist control instead of sleeves
  • Underhooks more important
  • Faster transitions needed
  • Sit-up variation better
  • Works but requires adaptation

🎯 Belt-Level Expectations​

White Belt Goals​

Referenced in Beginner's Journey:

  • Understand DLR concept (Month 6-8)
  • Basic hook placement
  • Classic DLR sweep execution
  • Maintain position briefly
  • Recognize when to use DLR

Blue Belt Development​

Referenced in Skill Progression:

  • Classic and balloon sweeps functional
  • DLR and RDLR proficiency
  • Basic back takes from DLR
  • Smooth guard transitions
  • Competition application
  • DLR as primary open guard option
  • Teaching basic DLR to others

Purple Belt Mastery​

  • Complete DLR system
  • Berimbolo proficiency
  • Kiss of dragon functional
  • Advanced grip fighting
  • Teaching ability comprehensive
  • Competition specialization
  • Understanding when to abandon DLR
  • Creating opportunities for DLR entry
  • Seamless guard transition system

Brown/Black Belt Expertise​

  • DLR as complete offensive system
  • Multiple berimbolo variations
  • Creative back-take sequences
  • High-level competition application
  • Developing personal variations
  • Teaching advanced concepts

🎯 Next Steps​

After understanding De La Riva fundamentals:

  1. Master hook placement → Everything starts with deep hook
  2. Learn classic sweep first → Foundation for all DLR
  3. Add balloon sweep → Increases attack variety
  4. Study sit-up DLR → Direct back-take path
  5. Begin berimbolo journey → Long-term skill development
  6. Practice transitions → DLR to x-guard, to RDLR
  7. Develop grip fighting → Essential for modern competition
  8. Study back mount → Know where you're going

🔗 Related Resources​

Guard System Concepts​

Positions from DLR​

Submissions from DLR​

Opponent Perspective​

Theoretical Foundation​

Progress Tracking​