Issue 125

February 2015

Jimmy Pedro is one of the world’s top judo coaches. His ex students include UFC star Ronda Rousey. With the help of black belt Riley McIlwain, the USA Olympic team head coach presents the best judo moves for MMA. Here, Jimmy demonstrates the tani otoshi (valley drop).

Tani Otoshi (Valley Drop)

1. This technique is best used on an opponent that has a really good defense by bringing their hips forward when you attack with forward throws. Jimmy baits Riley as if he’s going to throw him forward. 

2. As Riley brings his hip forward Jimmy switches his left leg behind and drives his head into his opponent’s chest.

3. Jimmy fully commits with his back leg, hooking in his left heel before driving his weight forward off his right leg.

4. To finish, Jimmy has to completely wrap his left leg around Riley’s back leg, then he can sit in to complete the move. 

PRO TIP

The better your opponent is, the better this throw works – as long as you sell him on the forward throw