In a recent video, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom Gordon Ryan teamed up with MMA legend Jon Jones to demonstrate an MMA-adapted triangle from the closed guard position. The video, which quickly gained traction due to Jones’ presence, offers valuable insights for both BJJ practitioners and MMA stars.
Ryan begins by emphasizing the importance of breaking the opponent’s posture in closed guard, a common position in mixed martial arts. He demonstrates how to control the opponent using a swim inside technique coupled with a knee pull, effectively bringing them closer and limiting their striking ability.
The key to this technique, Ryan explains, is the inside wrist grip. Unlike an outside wrist grip, which allows the opponent to pommel their hand inside and potentially land strikes, the inside grip forces any escape attempt upwards. This movement is further restricted by controlling the opponent’s shoulder, making it difficult for them to posture up and create distance.
From this controlled position, Ryan shows how to transition into a triangle setup by maneuvering the knee inside the opponent’s shoulder and throwing the foot over. He stresses the importance of creating the proper angle by scooping the opponent’s leg, which eliminates the shoulder and tightens the lock.
The instructional showcases Ryan’s tactical approach to grappling, demonstrating how to manipulate the opponent’s position to either keep them at bay or pull them into a vulnerable spot. This strategy is particularly relevant in MMA, where striking defense is crucial while setting up submissions.
Ryan concludes by explaining the finishing details of the triangle, emphasizing the tight lock and the pivot off the opponent’s shoulders to maximize pressure. This adaptation of a classic BJJ technique for MMA scenarios highlights the evolving nature of grappling in mixed martial arts.
