It's a lot lot easier to take people down from behind than from in : Takedowns can be some of the most grueling work in grappling. Not only is the work physically demanding, it can be dangerous as you go straight into many of your opponents best counters such as guillotines and other strangles. Often it's a lot easier to slip behind them first and THEN your takedowns. Here is Gordon Ryan Ryan practicing his takedowns from standing rear body lock position that proved decisive in his 2022 Super Fight victory