Issue 119

September 2014

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 judo head coach shows the best judo moves for MMA

1 Jimmy (blue gi) starts off gripping Riley’s right lapel with his right hand, while Riley replies by holding high on Jimmy’s sleeve with his right hand. In turn, Jimmy quickly goes over the top of Riley’s right arm with his left hand, grabbing the sleeve behind Riley’s triceps, putting Jimmy in position to initiate the kata guruma.

2 Jimmy pulls Riley off balance by raising his elbow, also creating space for his head. He then drives his arm between Riley’s legs as he drops to his knees as far underneath Riley as he can before pulling down on Riley’s right arm. 

3 Hooking Riley’s right leg with his right arm, Jimmy pops up with his hips so both Riley’s feet come off the floor. For added explosion on the throw, Jimmy steps up with his right leg.

NOTE: With both of Riley’s feet off the floor, Jimmy has full control of Riley’s body allowing him to dump him wherever he chooses. 

4 Jimmy tilts Riley over his shoulders, putting him on his back. Controlling all the way, Jimmy finishes in side control.