Gordon Ryan: Slide-In Ashi Garami from Standing + Finishes
Sometimes it’s the basics—done properly—that open the door to elite-level control and submission. In this new class, Luke breaks down Gordon Ryan’s standing-entry Slide Ashi Garami that builds off collar tie/wrist control, square stance manipulation, and smart level changes.
This is a masterclass in disguise.
⚡ FROM COLLAR TIE TO CONTROLLED ENTRY
We start with a classic collar tie and wrist grip, looking to square up our opponent’s stance—a small but crucial detail that makes the entry work. Once we force that square position, it’s time to:
Change levels
Step in with intent
Slide your knee clean through to inside position
As Luke says: “This works best when they’re upright and distracted by head control. They think you’re going for collar ties—and suddenly you’re in their leg.”
🛡️ THE ASHI GARMI CONNECTION
Once you slide in, the goal is to connect your hips, cross frame if needed, and elevate into Ashi Garami. Watch closely:
Proper hip elevation creates structure and off-balancing potential
The back heel wedges against their quad for positional retention
You initiate off-balancing before exposing the heel
🌀 TRANSITIONS: STRAIGHT FOOT LOCK TO OUTSIDE ASHI REAP
Here’s where the sophistication kicks in:
If the foot comes off the mat → Straight Foot Lock
If not → Enter Outside Ashi Reap
You’ll explore:
Butterfly hook variations for spacing
Cross-framing to manage pressure and prevent top connections
Repositioning your feet outside the leg for stronger breaking mechanics
High-elbow heel exposure setups
Luke walks through how to rotate, off-balance, and attack with precision—turning an entry that feels simple into a legit submission sequence under pressure.
🧠 BONUS: ADVANCED BREAKING CONCEPTS
For the more experienced grapplers, this class finishes with elite detail:
Reap direction and knee orientation (don’t turn your knees up!)
Framing mechanics for armpit-level heel exposure
Follow-ups if your partner rolls or tries to kick out
This is a must-watch for anyone looking to build a dangerous Ashi game from standing and get their entries dialed in for real matches.
👊 START DRILLING IT NOW
You’ll find this class in the All Levels section under Slide Ashi Entries and Leg Lock Fundamentals. Whether you're sharpening your fundamentals or building out your leg lock game, this sequence is going to level up your entries and finishes fast.
▶️ Watch now on Sydney West Martial Arts’ YouTube channel.
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