How to Do the Berimbolo in BJJ
The berimbolo is an advanced back take from De La Riva guard. You invert underneath your opponent to come up on their back. Popularized by the Mendes Brothers and Miyao Brothers.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Start in De La Riva guard with belt grip
- 2 Invert while pulling them over you
- 3 Hook their far leg with your bottom leg
- 4 Continue rotating to come up on their back
- 5 Secure seatbelt and hooks
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not inverting enough
- ⚠️ Losing the belt/back grip
- ⚠️ Missing the far leg hook
- ⚠️ Timing off with partner's movement
- ⚠️ Getting stuck in the inversion
🔄 Variations
- → Kiss of the dragon
- → Crab ride finish
- → Baby bolo
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Heavy hips
- → Sit back
- → Roll through
- → Leg drag
Track Your Berimbolo Progress
Log every time you practice the Berimbolo and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Transitions
View all →Arm Drag
The arm drag is a fundamental wrestling technique adapted for BJJ. By pulling your opponent's arm ac...
Mount to Back Take
Taking the back when your opponent turns away to escape mount. Follow their turn and secure hooks....
Side Control to Mount
Advancing from side control to mount by stepping or sliding over to the full mount position....
Kiss of the Dragon
Kiss of the Dragon is a back take from reverse De La Riva where you invert underneath them and come ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Berimbolo? ▼
The Berimbolo 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 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? ▼
The Berimbolo is typically executed from de la riva guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.