Butterfly Guard Setup and Positioning

The reverse butterfly sweep begins from a standard butterfly guard position where the practitioner lies on their back with both feet hooked to the inside of the opponent's thighs. The instructor deliberately allows themselves to be pushed down easily to set up the sweep, leaning to one side while maintaining a firm grip on the opponent's hand or arm.

Creating Pressure and Establishing Control

As the opponent applies pressure by pushing the guard down, the practitioner props up onto their elbow and scoots laterally. They secure an underhook grip by grabbing the opponent's lat or belt, then push into the opponent's head to encourage them to push back, which amplifies the sweeping motion.

Foot Positioning and Hip Escape

One of the hooking feet is withdrawn from under the opponent's thigh and posted on the floor to create space. The practitioner then scoots their hip out while maintaining upper body control, using this footwork to generate leverage for the sweep.

Completing the Sweep to Top Position

As the opponent's body is pulled back and they attempt to reposition, the practitioner scoots upward while controlling the opponent's leg. Upon reaching the top position, they drive their shoulder into the opponent's neck to maintain pressure and control.

Alternative Setup: Knee-on-Chest Variant

A secondary variation occurs when the opponent pushes the knee to their chest and releases the leg before attempting a passing sequence. In this scenario, the practitioner maintains head and arm control while the opponent wraps around their back, requiring an adjusted grip and timing for the sweep.

Grip Mechanics: Underhook Advantage

The underhook grip on the opponent's arm is mechanically superior to an overhook, as it prevents the opponent from posting their hand firmly on the floor. By securing this grip and scooting to get their elbow down, the practitioner can lift the opponent's arm, disrupting their base and pass defense.

Trapping the Hand and Executing the Sweep

When the opponent hugs the practitioner's back to smash them down, the practitioner lays back to trap the opponent's hand under their own back. With the hand trapped and their back as anchor, they scoot out their leg and execute the sweep to top position.

Setup Timing and Pressure Management

Both sweep variations require the opponent to apply downward pressure, but not so easily or obviously that the setup becomes transparent. The practitioner begins leaning as soon as pressure is detected on their knee, maintaining a natural resistance that encourages the opponent to commit to the passing attempt.

Reverse Butterfly Sweep | 33f

Pathfinder Jiu-Jitsu Team

Reverse Butterfly Sweep

2 min read·8 key moments·PT5M32S video

Key Takeaways

•Butterfly Guard Setup and Positioning
•Creating Pressure and Establishing Control
•Foot Positioning and Hip Escape
•Completing the Sweep to Top Position

Watch next: Reverse Butterfly Sweep: https://youtu.be/AZ4gU-6bASs Reverse Butterfly Sweep Leg Details & Cradle Counter: https://youtu.be/gHdFvogOi1I Reverse Butterfly Sweep recovery from the Cradle Counter: https://youtu.be/XpId-s6ybyk Reverse Butterfly Sweep attempt to Arm Triangle: https://youtu.be/htJkfdr731M Train with Carlson Gracie Black Belt Chris Griffin at the Fight Factory in Louisville, KY (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Yoga, etc.): ph: 502-371-7883 Fight Factory Journeys: https://bit.ly/3vHpusp Fight Factory: https://bit.ly/3MoMJgW Blackbelt Chronicles: https://bit.ly/3HM7Fei ORIGIN USA & JOCKO FUEL (MADE IN USA): https://bit.ly/3n836To Discount Code: GAEBEL10 (10% off most items)

Related Techniques

Basic Butterfly Sweep X-Guard Sweep

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about reverse butterfly sweep?

This video covers butterfly guard setup and positioning, creating pressure and establishing control, foot positioning and hip escape. It provides detailed instruction from Pathfinder Jiu-Jitsu Team.

How long does it take to learn reverse butterfly sweep?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.