Volume 9 - Self Defense
I've seen a couple of Brazilian self defense tapes, and I can't say I really enjoy them much. I watched this tape, and my thoughts ranged from "cool" I'll have to try that to "I'll never pull that off." The tape begins with showing counters to someone pushing on your chest then moves to someone grabbing you. Each of these moves end in a wristlock. I'm not a big fan of wrist locks, especially the two handed multiple step ones; a lock or two like this graced the tape.

De La Riva then goes on to show a nifty escape to the full nelson that I can't wait to try, and then he shows 2 versions of the guillotine. One is the figure four version associated with Catch Wrestling. (I know BJJ does this version, but a BJJ practioner has never put it on a tape until now to the best of my knowledge); if you REALLY want to learn this move, get Tony's series. He then shows another version of the guillotine where you reach under the arm, having the arm trapped in with the neck. This is quite common, but De La Riva uses a grip I have never seen which is similar to say an arm triangle or rear naked.

The tape moves on to discuss two attackers. De La Riva's advice is get against a wall, so one cannot get behind you, and quickly execute takedowns on each of your opponent. Good luck. He says if one grabs you from behind and the other is trying to punch you, kick the one punching you away and take the one grabbing you down. Ok. The advice I found most practical is getting behind one of the attackers, use him as a shield, and put him to sleep.

The out take section was really funny. Marcelo slaps the crap out of De La Riva, knocking the gum out of his mouth! What's even better is De La Riva bends down, picks it up, and starts chewing it again!! This was my least favorite tape, but, then again, I don't like this type of tape too much.

This instructional DVD set is for sale in the Sherdog Shop for $79.99.