COUNTFILMS
BJJ News

Eddie Cummings: The Unsung Hero Behind the Leg Lock Revolution in BJJ

Eddie Cummings: The Unsung Innovator of the Leg Lock System in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), certain names stand out as pioneers and innovators who have shaped the sport. However, there is one figure whose contributions often go unnoticed, despite playing a pivotal role in perfecting and reinventing the leg lock system that has become a cornerstone of modern BJJ. This article delves into the story of Eddie Cummings, an exceptional athlete who revolutionized the art of leg locking, yet remains overshadowed by others in the limelight.

The Rise of Eddie Cummings in Jiu-Jitsu

Eddie Cummings emerged during a period when leg locks were not as prevalent as they are today. His fearless approach and unrivaled expertise in applying leg locks set him apart from his peers. Cummings gained recognition for his remarkable finishing submission streak, particularly with his terrifying heel hooks. These victories propelled him to the forefront of the Jiu-Jitsu scene, showcasing his exceptional skill and positioning him as one of the best finishers in the world at that time. All while training in the blue basement, Renzo Gracie NYC, with coach John Danaher and teammates Gordon Ryan and Gary Tonon.

Eddie Cummings

Eddie Cummings: A Pioneer of the Leg Lock Revolution

At a time when most practitioners were unfamiliar with effective leg lock techniques in high level competition, Eddie Cummings embraced the uncharted territory. He became a catalyst for the leg lock revolution, pushing the boundaries of what was possible within the sport. His relentless pursuit of excellence and unyielding commitment to perfecting leg locks showcased his immense talent and elevated the significance of this submission technique. Before this there were only small pockets of Jiu-Jitsu athletes accomplishing leg based submissions in competition at the highest level. Ryan Hall, a UFC Veteran, was known for finishing fights in MMA with the use of heel hooks and leg attacks from his patented 50/50 Jiu-Jitsu game. Others include Dean Lister who was finishing everyone with heel hooks ad leg attacks. But on the global stage the percent of leg lockers was not yet at its zenith. The Danaher Death Squad would change that, and Eddie was major contributing factor of skill and knowledge to the teams understanding of leg exchanges and submissions. But he isn’t credited very much at all. His old DDS team mates have achieved world success through competition, by teaching and touring seminars, and selling online tutorials like it was karate tapes in the 90’s.

Eddie Cummings BJJ

“While others may receive the glory, I take pride in knowing that I played a massive role in sharing the leg lock system with the world and greatly influenced today’s jiu-jitsu landscape. It’s unfortunate that politics and disagreements overshadow my contributions, but my love for the art and the impact I made cannot be erased.”

– Eddie Cummings
Photo: Jeff Chu

The Mastery of Leg Locks: Understanding Eddie Cummings’ Technical Brilliance

Eddie Cummings’ leg lock system in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a masterclass in precision and technique, designed to exploit vulnerabilities in an opponent’s lower body by locking one or both legs and attacking one to then setup gaining the other for the submission in the process. His approach combines a deep understanding of the intricate mechanics of leg locks with relentless pressure and strategic control of limbs and positioning. Cummings’ expertise lies in the art of applying devastating heel hooks and ankle locks, rendering his opponents helpless on the mats.

Eddie Cummings BJJ
Photo: Dave Mandel

At the heart of his leg lock system is a meticulous study of positioning and leverage. Cummings utilizes a range of grips and entanglements to secure his opponent’s leg, strategically isolating it for maximum control and pressure. His ability to read his opponent’s reactions and adjust his technique accordingly sets him apart, as he seamlessly transitions from one submission to another, always staying one step ahead and organically flowing through positions without ever giving the opponent space. With a keen sense of timing and impeccable execution, Cummings is able to apply excruciating joint locks, forcing opponents to tap out or risk serious injury.

Eddie Cummings Leg Lock

The Role of Danaher Death Squad to The Leg Locking Revolution in Jiu-Jitsu

While the Danaher Death Squad, led by John Danaher, has received widespread recognition for their systematic approach to positional control and finishing submissions, it is crucial to acknowledge Eddie Cummings’ influence on their success. Cummings can be considered the athlete who brought Danaher’s teachings to the mainstream. His exceptional performances in 2014 to 2016, popularizing the blue basement at Renzo Gracie Academy, played a pivotal role in attracting attention to Danaher’s methods.

The Conflict and Undervaluation of Eddie Cummings Contribution to DDS

Despite his significant contributions, Eddie Cummings finds himself undervalued and uncredited for his instrumental role in perfecting the leg lock system in Jiu Jitsu. The conflict between Cummings and John Danaher has been speculated to stem from discrepancies in receiving acknowledgment for their respective contributions. While Gordon Ryan and Gary Tonon have excelled and achieved recognition within the leg lock system, Eddie Cummings’ achievements often go unnoticed.

The Legacy and Moving On from the Danaher Death Squad

Following his remarkable successes, Eddie Cummings gradually stepped away from competitive BJJ. Although he expressed enthusiasm for the sport and continued personal growth, he cited lifestyle changes, returning to school, and a lack of suitable opponents as reasons for his reduced participation. It is unfortunate that politics and disagreements over credit have caused a rift within the Danaher Death Squad, potentially leading to the under-appreciation of Cummings’ legacy. The now DDS team has split into two factions that have verbally online attacked each others credibility with social medias posts, interview, videos and podcasts. The two teams, B-Team Jiu-Jitsu led by Craig Jones and New Wave Jiu-Jitsu led by John Danaher, never have anything good to say about each other, always accusing the counter team of cheating and steroid abuse. Is this current climate between the two Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams a telling sign of why Eddie Cummings left the original DDS team citing, “Politics” as being the issue that we all now see today in 2023. Is it possible that Eddie Cummings was just a good guy who loved BJJ and didn’t want to be around a toxic and political environment in his old team in New York? He moved from John Danaher and his death squad at Renzo Gracie NYC to Unity Jiu-Jitsu in instead.

Eddie Cummings & Girlfriend Ottavia Bourdain

Unmasking the Leg Lock Architect: Eddie Cummings’ Revolutionary Path in BJJ

Eddie Cummings, the unsung hero of the leg lock revolution in BJJ, played a significant role in perfecting and reinventing this submission technique. His fearlessness, exceptional skill, and dedication to the art of leg locking pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the sport. Despite being overshadowed by others who received more recognition, Cummings’ influence and impact on the leg lock system remains undeniable. As we celebrate the evolution of BJJ, it is crucial to remember the individuals like Eddie Cummings who shaped the sport through their uncredited contributions and unwavering dedication to their craft. Jiu-Jitsu will never be the same.

For BJJ enthusiasts, studying Eddie Cummings’ leg lock system unravels a whole new dimension of ground fighting. His technical prowess and innovation in this realm have revolutionized the way leg locks are perceived and utilized in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. By understanding the intricate details of his techniques, practitioners can gain valuable insights into the mechanics, setups, and variations of leg locks, expanding their own repertoire and enhancing their effectiveness on the mat. Comment your thoughts on the legendary king who was never crowned below!

Photo: Flograppling

Related posts

Kade Ruotolo Defends ONE Championship’s Lightweight Submission Grappling World Title Against Tommy Langaker at ONE Fight Night 11

Count

Craig Jones wasn’t joking about B-Team Jiu-Jitsu

Count

Top 10 Wackiest Jiu-Jitsu Submissions: A Deep Dive into the Art of Submission Grappling

Count

Leave a Comment