Pro Jiu-Jitsu competitor William Tackett recently broke down the grappling skills of Renaissance Periodization founder Mike Israetel in a detailed technical analysis. The Austin based black belt examined footage of Israetel who was a brown belt at the time of filming but has since earned his black belt offering both praise and constructive criticism for the renowned bodybuilder and BJJ practitioner.
Tackett began by acknowledging Israetel‘s accomplishments both on and off the mat noting that earning a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is
“a hard thing to accomplish”
. The analysis covered two distinct rounds, one against a novice grappler and another against a black belt instructor, providing insight into how Israetel‘s game functions against different skill levels.
In the first match against Johnny, a bodybuilder with minimal grappling experience Tackett highlighted Israetel‘s effective use of half guard, a position particularly well suited for larger athletes. However he noted technical improvements that could enhance effectiveness particularly regarding leg configuration.
“I would like to see the opposite”
Tackett explained about Israetel‘s figure four positioning suggesting that switching which leg hooks the ankle would create better connection and control.
Tackett praised Israetel‘s ability to maintain
“chest to chest pressure”
during passing sequences and his strategic decision to force closed guard after sweeps to secure top position. He also commended the can opener submission finish acknowledging the effectiveness of Israetel‘s grip transitions though noting it’s an uncomfortable position for any opponent.
During the more challenging round against a black belt Tackett identified areas needing refinement particularly turtle position defense. He emphasized the importance of keeping the forehead on the mat and maintaining elbow to knee connection to prevent back takes.
“You can’t do that like this”
Tackett observed noting how Israetel‘s posture left him vulnerable to hooks and positional control.
Throughout the analysis Tackett consistently emphasized the importance of details like toe positioning during passing, keeping toes curled under for forward drive rather than flat on the mat, and maintaining the elbow to knee connection during body lock passes. These seemingly minor adjustments he explained make significant differences in maintaining pressure and preventing escapes.
Dr Mike’s coach defended his promotion once again:
Tackett concluded by praising Israetel‘s ability to
“keep people within his parameters”
noting this as crucial for competitive success. He highlighted Israetel‘s strategic energy conservation particularly how he would burst out of bad positions rather than exhausting himself resisting the inevitable.
