Stop stacks and over-under, then counter to sweeps and subs.
The Bottom Line
You will learn early stack and over-under prevention. You will turn frames into crucifix, back takes, and armlocks. You will not get a full retention masterclass for every pass style.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Smaller guards getting smashed
Skip if: You only play top
Tech focus: Stack Pass Defense, Over Under Defense, Kimura Trap
Biggest takeaway: Prevent, then counterattack
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What You'll Learn
Flip the script on smash passers. Galvao shows stack and over-under defenses, then turns frames into sweeps, back takes, and quick submissions. The curriculum emphasizes early prevention, posture management, and hip mobility to avoid getting flattened.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Stack Pass Defense
- Over Under Defense
- Kimura Trap
- Scissor Sweep Crucifix
- Framing Armbar
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Both
- Runtime: 5 hours and 1 minute
- Volumes: 4
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I rated it highly because many r/bjj complaints center on getting smashed; this gives immediate, actionable counters to common pressure styles.
Why Andre Galvao?
World-class competitor and coach; shows the other side of his famous stack game to help bottom players survive and score.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Great for smaller players who get smashed by over-under and stack.
- Users appreciate specific counters that become offense, not just survival.
- Praised for teaching when to prevent versus when to escape.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some argue other instructors go deeper on retention theory.
- A few find the sequences complex without drilling partners.
- Heavy focus on stack/over-under leaves less on knee-cut pressure.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- The Guard Retention Anthology (Around and Under) – Broader retention lenses for varied passing styles.
- Side Control Escapes: Basics To Advanced Concepts – Backstop if prevention fails and you get pinned. (Price: $127.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Defending and Countering Pressure Passes on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
