Issue 114

May 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) looks to set up a juji gatame (armbar) on Riley, who has dropped to all fours in attempting to avoid a throw.

2. Jimmy first steps his right leg over and around Riley’s back, then posts on his right hand as he slides his shin under Riley’s torso, hooking his right foot on top of Riley’s left thigh.

3. Jimmy slips his left arm around Riley’s right arm, grabs his own right gi pants leg at the thigh and presses his left knee against the right side of Riley’s head.

4. Jimmy rolls onto his left hip and takes a moment to readjust his left hand to get maximum leverage, by pulling it closer to his hip with his right hand.

5. Having grabbed Riley’s far leg with his right hand, Jimmy pulls it across his face as he lifts with his right knee so Riley’s head comes off the floor.

6. Jimmy brings his left leg in front of Riley’s before Riley’s back touches the mat face to better secure the armbar.

7. To break Riley’s defending grip, Jimmy pulls Riley’s right arm towards him, by grabbing at the elbow, to make more room to slip his hooking left arm deeper and grab his collar with his left hand.

8. Jimmy leans back and to his left as he drives with his legs and pulls with his two arms on Riley’s one to break the grip.

9. Having straightened his body, Jimmy makes sure Riley’s right palm is facing up then squeezes with his legs and pushes up with his hips to finish the armbar.