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Reverse Mount Top | BJJ Position Guide | BJJ Graph

Oct 25, 202516 min read

Reverse Mount Top

bjjpositionmounttop_controladvanced

State Description

Reverse Mount Top is a transitional dominant position where the practitioner sits on the opponent’s chest or abdomen while facing away from their head, essentially mounted in the opposite direction from standard mount. This position scores 4 points (same as standard mount in IBJJF) but is inherently less stable and more difficult to maintain long-term. It typically occurs during scrambles, failed back take attempts, or when opponents turn away during standard mount control.

The defining characteristic of reverse mount is the backward orientation: the top practitioner’s back faces the opponent’s head while sitting on their torso. This creates unique challenges - no head control, inability to see opponent’s face for reaction cues, and different weight distribution requirements. However, it also creates opportunities for specific submissions (armbar, twister, collar chokes) and serves as an excellent transitional platform to standard mount or back control.

The position’s main strategic value is as a stepping stone rather than a destination. Experienced practitioners recognize reverse mount immediately and flow smoothly to standard mount (simply turning to face forward) or back control (inserting hooks from the reverse position). Attempting to hold reverse mount for extended periods typically results in increased escape success for the opponent. The position’s moderate risk level reflects its transitional nature - dominant enough to score points and create submissions, but vulnerable enough to require quick decision-making about which superior position to convert to.

Visual Description

You are sitting on your opponent’s chest or upper abdomen with your buttocks as the primary contact point, but facing toward their legs rather than their head - essentially mounted backward. Your knees are positioned on either side of their torso, similar to standard mount but reversed. Your legs extend toward their legs, with feet potentially hooking under their thighs or positioned on the mat for base. Your back faces their head, eliminating any head control.

Your opponent lies flat on their back beneath you, with your weight pinning their chest. Their head is behind your back where you cannot see it. Their arms are either defensive against their body or attempting to create frames against your hips/back. Weight distribution runs through your sitting bones onto their chest/abdomen, requiring balance maintenance through core engagement and knee positioning since you lack the natural balance of facing forward.

The spatial relationship creates an unusual control dynamic: you have significant weight pressure controlling their torso, but limited ability to control their upper body or anticipate their movements. Your hands are free for grips, posting, or initiating transitions. Control mechanisms include body weight pinning, knee pressure on sides, and balance adjustments. Movement capabilities include rotating to standard mount (simple turn), inserting hooks for back control (legs already positioned), or attacking with submissions (armbar, choke). Restrictions include inability to see opponent’s face, limited upper body control, and inherent instability compared to standard mount.

This creates strategic advantages of transitional opportunities and unique submission angles, while maintaining dominant point value but requiring quick conversion to more stable positions for sustained control.

Key Principles

  • Transitional Recognition: Understanding this position is temporary and should convert quickly to standard mount or back control
  • Weight Distribution: Proper weight through buttocks onto chest prevents bridging escapes despite backward orientation
  • Balance Through Core: Core engagement maintains balance while facing away from opponent’s center of mass
  • Quick Transition Mindset: Mental preparedness to flow immediately to superior positions rather than forcing reverse mount control
  • Opportunistic Submissions: Recognizing brief submission windows without over-committing to attacks from unstable position
  • Knee Control: Wide knee positioning provides base and prevents opponent hip movement
  • Position Hierarchy Awareness: Recognizing that standard mount and back control are superior end goals

Offensive Transitions

From this position, you can execute:

Position Improvements

  • Transition to Standard Mount → Mount (Success Rate: Beginner 55%, Intermediate 70%, Advanced 85%)

    • Turn body to face opponent in one smooth rotation, maintaining weight pressure throughout turn

  • Transition to Back Control → Back Control (Success Rate: Beginner 45%, Intermediate 60%, Advanced 75%)

    • Insert hooks from reverse position, legs already positioned near opponent’s sides for easy insertion

  • Transition to S-Mount → S-Mount Top (Success Rate: Beginner 40%, Intermediate 55%, Advanced 70%)

    • Advance leg position to S-configuration for armbar setup, requires opponent compliance or fatigue

Submissions

Defensive Responses

When opponent has this position against you, available counters:

Decision Tree

If opponent creates defensive frames with elbows:

Else if opponent remains flat and defensive:

Else if opponent attempts to turn toward you:

Else (balanced opponent / default):

Expert Insights

John Danaher: “Reverse mount exists primarily as a transitional position in the hierarchy, not a destination. The key understanding is that you’re essentially already in position for back control - your legs are positioned perfectly to insert hooks. The question is whether to convert to back control or rotate to standard mount, and the answer depends on opponent’s defensive structure. If they’re flat and passive, back control is optimal. If they’re framing or bridging, standard mount is the path. From a systematic perspective, treat reverse mount as a decision point rather than a sustained position. The mechanical disadvantage of facing away from opponent’s center of control means extended time here increases escape probability. Make your decision quickly: back control for passive opponents, standard mount for active defenders.”

Gordon Ryan: “In competition, reverse mount happens a lot during scrambles - usually when you’re attacking the back and they defend by turning. I never try to stay in reverse mount. I’m immediately thinking: can I get hooks in for back control? If yes, do it. If no, turn to standard mount. That’s it. No complicated decision tree. The position scores the same points as mount but it’s way less stable, so why stay there? Sometimes I’ll hit a quick armbar if their arm is way out of position, but 95% of the time I’m transitioning. In training, drill smooth transitions FROM reverse mount rather than trying to develop a reverse mount game. It’s a bridge, not a house.”

Eddie Bravo: “Reverse mount is interesting because it’s actually the setup position for some of our advanced 10th Planet techniques, particularly the twister. But here’s the thing - the twister requires very specific positioning and opponent movement. Most of the time, you’re better off converting to standard mount or getting hooks in. Where reverse mount shines is in the transition itself - you can flow smoothly from turtle top control to reverse mount to either back control or standard mount. Don’t think of it as static position; think of it as part of a flow sequence. If you’re in reverse mount, you should already be moving to your next position. The exception is if you see the twister setup clear as day - then go for it because it’s devastating. But don’t force it.”

Common Errors

Error: Attempting to Maintain Reverse Mount Long-Term

  • Consequence: Position becomes progressively less stable over time, opponent adapts to unusual control dynamic, escape probability increases significantly, energy expenditure increases
  • Correction: Recognize reverse mount as transitional immediately, make decision within 3-5 seconds (standard mount, back control, or quick submission), execute transition smoothly
  • Recognition: If you’ve been in reverse mount for more than 10-15 seconds without clear submission setup, you’re making this error

Error: Poor Weight Distribution

  • Consequence: Opponent can bridge effectively, creates space for escapes, makes position unstable and easy to reverse
  • Correction: Keep weight heavy through buttocks directly on opponent’s chest/abdomen, avoid leaning too far forward (toward their legs) or back (toward their head)
  • Recognition: If opponent’s bridges are moving you significantly or you feel unstable, weight distribution is wrong

Error: Forcing Submissions from Unstable Position

  • Consequence: Submission attempts from reverse mount without secure position control result in lost position and failed attacks
  • Correction: Only attempt submissions if opponent is flat, passive, and arm/neck clearly exposed; otherwise transition to standard mount first
  • Recognition: If your submission attempts are failing AND you’re losing position, you’re over-committing

Error: Neglecting to Turn to Standard Mount

  • Consequence: Staying in less stable position when simple rotation would provide better control and more attack options
  • Correction: Default action should be turning to standard mount unless clear reason exists to stay reverse (back control opportunity, perfect submission setup)
  • Recognition: If unsure what to do from reverse mount, you should be turning to standard mount

Error: Not Recognizing Back Control Opportunity

  • Consequence: Missing easy transition to superior back control position when hooks can be easily inserted
  • Correction: When opponent is flat, immediately assess if hooks can insert; back control is superior to reverse mount
  • Recognition: If opponent’s legs are accessible and they’re not defending, back control opportunity exists

Error: Losing Balance During Transition

  • Consequence: Opponent escapes during your rotation to standard mount or during hook insertion
  • Correction: Maintain heavy weight pressure throughout transitions, use smooth controlled movements rather than quick jerky motions
  • Recognition: If opponent escapes during your transitions FROM reverse mount frequently, balance maintenance is problem

Error: Ignoring Opponent’s Bridge Setup

  • Consequence: Allowing opponent to establish bridge position and explosively reverse the mount
  • Correction: As soon as opponent’s feet plant and hips prepare to lift, either post hands for base or initiate transition to standard mount
  • Recognition: If opponent successfully bridges and reverses you, you missed their setup indicators

Training Drills

Drill 1: Reverse Mount to Standard Mount Transition (Flow Repetition)

Start in reverse mount on willing partner. Practice smooth rotation to standard mount while maintaining weight pressure throughout. Partner provides 0% resistance (allows transition), progress to 25% (mild resistance), 50% (realistic resistance), 75% (strong defense). 10 transitions at each resistance level before progressing. Focus: maintaining weight contact with chest throughout rotation, using opponent’s body as pivot point, smooth one-motion turn. Common mistake: lifting off opponent during rotation creating space. Success metric: completing transition at 75% resistance without opponent creating escape space.

Drill 2: Position Recognition and Decision Making (Choice Drill)

Partner places you in reverse mount randomly during rolling. You must immediately recognize position and make decision: standard mount, back control, or submission. Instructor calls out scenario (“opponent flat and passive” = back control, “opponent framing” = standard mount, “arm extended” = armbar). 20 reps with quick recognition and execution. Focus: instant recognition of reverse mount, decision-making under pressure, smooth transition execution. This drill develops the mental pattern recognition that reverse mount is transitional.

Drill 3: Weight Distribution Maintenance (Balance and Pressure)

Hold reverse mount on partner who provides progressive defensive movements (staying flat → mild squirming → bridging attempts → full defensive escape attempts). You must maintain position purely through weight distribution without using hands. Start with 30 seconds static (partner flat), then 30 seconds mild movement, then 30 seconds active defense. Focus: buttocks pressure on chest, core engagement for balance, knee positioning for stability. Common mistake: leaning too far forward or back losing balance. Success metric: maintaining position for full 90 seconds through all resistance phases.

Drill 4: Back Control Insertion from Reverse Mount (Hook Mechanics)

From reverse mount on partner, practice inserting hooks smoothly to establish back control. Partner provides progressive resistance: 0% (allows hook insertion), 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%. 5 repetitions at each resistance level. Focus: first hook slides inside opponent’s thigh while maintaining chest pressure, second hook follows immediately, seat belt grip established before releasing reverse mount control. Common mistake: trying to insert both hooks simultaneously instead of sequentially. Success metric: establishing back control from reverse mount at 75% resistance within 3-4 seconds.

Drill 5: Submission Opportunism (Attack Windows)

Partner randomly provides submission opportunities from reverse mount (extends arm, stays flat with exposed neck, begins turning). You must recognize opportunity and attempt submission IF position is secure, OR transition to better position if setup is insufficient. Instructor evaluates decision quality. 15 scenarios with mix of submission opportunities and transition requirements. Focus: risk assessment, recognizing difference between legitimate opening and trap, prioritizing position over submission. This drill develops judgment about when to attack vs. when to transition.

  • Mount - Standard mount is primary progression and more stable variation facing forward
  • Back Control - Superior progression from reverse mount via hook insertion
  • S-Mount Top - Advanced progression for armbar setup from reverse mount
  • Turtle Position Top - Often precedes reverse mount establishment during scrambles
  • Technical Mount - Related dominant position with different control characteristics

Optimal Submission Paths

Fastest path to submission (direct attack): Reverse Mount Top → Armbar from Reverse Mount → Won by Submission Reasoning: If opponent’s arm is clearly extended and exposed, immediate armbar from reverse position (Advanced: 65% success). Requires arm isolation and secure position.

High-percentage path (systematic): Reverse Mount Top → Transition to Standard Mount → Armbar from Mount → Won by Submission Reasoning: Converting to standard mount first (85% success) provides more stable platform for submission attacks with better control and more attack options

Alternative submission path (gi variation): Reverse Mount Top → Collar Choke from Reverse Mount → Won by Submission Reasoning: When opponent is flat in gi, collar choke available (60% advanced success) without transition requirement

Back control path (superior position): Reverse Mount Top → Transition to Back Control → Rear Naked Choke → Won by Submission Reasoning: Back control provides highest-percentage submission position; inserting hooks from reverse mount (75% success) leads to best finishing position

Advanced path (twister specialty): Reverse Mount Top → Twister Submission → Won by Submission Reasoning: When opponent turns or conditions perfect, twister available (50% advanced success). Requires specific positioning and advanced skill.

Timing Considerations

Best Times to Enter:

  • During scrambles from turtle position control
  • After failed back take attempts when you end up backward
  • When opponent turns away during standard mount
  • From successful truck position transitions

Best Times to Attack:

  • Immediately recognize reverse mount and initiate transition (within 3-5 seconds)
  • Attack with submissions only if opponent is flat, passive, and clear opening exists
  • Convert to back control if opponent’s legs are accessible and undefended

Vulnerable Moments:

  • During initial establishment (most unstable phase)
  • When opponent begins explosive bridge attempt
  • Extended time in position (>15 seconds) without transition
  • If weight shifts incorrectly during balance adjustments

Fatigue Factors:

  • Medium energy cost to maintain due to balance requirements
  • Should be short-duration position (under 30 seconds typically)
  • Core engagement for balance becomes fatiguing if extended

Competition Considerations

Point Scoring: Reverse Mount scores 4 points (same as standard mount) in IBJJF. Points awarded when position established with control. Position counts as mount for scoring purposes.

Time Management: Not ideal for maintaining position to protect leads due to instability. Better to convert to standard mount or back control for time management. Use reverse mount as transition to superior positions quickly.

Rule Set Adaptations: In all major rule sets (IBJJF, ADCC, submission-only), reverse mount scores/counts as mount position. No special rule adaptations needed. In gi, collar choke options increase. In no-gi, focus on position transitions.

Competition Strategy: Reverse mount typically occurs unexpectedly during scrambles. Best strategy: recognize immediately, assess opponent state (flat/defensive/bridging), make quick decision (standard mount, back control, or quick submission), execute transition smoothly. Don’t waste time trying to develop reverse mount “game” - it’s transitional by nature.

Historical Context

Reverse mount gained attention primarily through Eddie Bravo’s 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system which uses it as a setup position for the twister submission. However, in traditional BJJ, reverse mount has always been recognized as a transitional position occurring during scrambles rather than a destination. The position highlights the evolutionary path of BJJ from position-focused grappling to more fluid, transition-based systems where practitioners flow through multiple positions within seconds.

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