On June 13, 2026, Russell U. shared a detailed seminar focused on practical methods for opening and passing the closed guard. Rather than relying on strength or speed, Professor Russ emphasized posture, pressure, and controlling key points of the body to create consistent passing opportunities.
The seminar explored multiple guard-opening options, including traditional openings as well as alternative pressure-based methods for dealing with opponents who have a particularly strong closed guard. A major theme was maintaining solid structure, protecting against common submissions, and transitioning immediately into effective passing positions once the guard is opened. Russ also discussed common mistakes, such as exposing the arms during standing guard breaks, and demonstrated how proper positioning minimizes risk while maximizing control. Throughout the seminar, students learned how to combine strong fundamentals with intelligent pressure, giving them a systematic approach to breaking the closed guard and advancing into dominant top positions against resisting opponents.
Seminar is now available on RŌL TV
https://rolacademy.tv/programs/2026-06-13-russell-usauskas