How to Do the Berimbolo Sweep in BJJ
The berimbolo is an inverting technique from DLR guard that spins you underneath the opponent to take their back. By inverting off the DLR hook and using momentum to spin under, you emerge behind the opponent for back control. It revolutionized modern BJJ competition and is associated with the Mendes brothers and Miyao brothers.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From DLR with belt or pants grip, pull the opponent forward
- 2 Invert by rolling over your shoulder on the hook side
- 3 Your DLR hook guides you underneath and around them
- 4 Emerge behind the opponent as you complete the rotation
- 5 Immediately secure seatbelt grip and insert hooks
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not pulling them forward before inverting
- ⚠️ Inverting to the wrong side
- ⚠️ Losing the DLR hook during the inversion
- ⚠️ Not completing the full rotation
- ⚠️ Failing to secure back control immediately after emerging
🔄 Variations
- → Baby berimbolo
- → Kiss of dragon entry
- → Reverse berimbolo
- → Berimbolo to leg drag
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Backstep when feeling the inversion
- → Sit down to prevent the spin
- → Turn and face them during the berimbolo
- → Counter berimbolo back
Track Your Berimbolo Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the Berimbolo Sweep and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Sweeps
View all →Scissor Sweep
The scissor sweep is one of the first sweeps taught in BJJ. From closed guard, you use your legs in ...
Hip Bump Sweep
The hip bump sweep capitalizes on an opponent who sits back with good posture in your guard. You use...
Flower Sweep
The flower sweep (pendulum sweep) uses a big pendulum motion with your leg to generate momentum and ...
Butterfly Sweep
The butterfly sweep is the fundamental attack from butterfly guard. Using your hooks and an underhoo...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Berimbolo Sweep? ▼
The Berimbolo Sweep is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Berimbolo Sweep works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Berimbolo Sweep? ▼
The Berimbolo Sweep is typically executed from de la riva. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.