Half Guard Shell | Reverse De la Riva

Transitioning from the Half Guard Shell to Reverse De La Riva is an effective strategy to counter the Knee Cut Pass. When the top player attempts the pass, it's crucial to manage the space between your knee and elbow, as this is the area they aim to control.

1. As the opponent pops up for a Knee Cut, pull your knee to your chest and create a hook on their hip with your foot.
2. Keep your arm beneath your knee to maintain a tight space, preventing the opponent from cutting through.
3. Even without a deep Reverse De La Riva game, this hook can serve as an initial defense against the pass.
4. Maintain awareness of the line between the opponent's shoulders and yourself, using your hands for control or opting for collar and sleeve grips if available.
5. In No-Gi, hand placement without grips is sufficient.
6. For added control, you can place your foot on the opponent's shoulder, replacing hand control with leg control.
7. Keep the opponent close and under control by filling gaps with your legs and maintaining elbow-knee connection.
8. During drills, manage the distance and control variables, replacing guards and adjusting to the opponent's movements, whether they attempt to pass or return to their knees.

This approach allows you to fluidly switch between defensive and offensive positions, keeping the opponent at bay and creating opportunities to recover or advance your guard.