Gi-first retention answers to stack, over-under, and torreando.
The Bottom Line
Valente packages tried-and-true gi defenses into clean progressions. You get rebuilds against stackers and over-under passers plus routes back to offense. Best if you favor collars, sleeves and classic open guard.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Gi-focused players
Skip if: You train only no-gi
Tech focus: Stack Pass Defense, Over Under Defense, Toreando Defense, Leg Drag Defense, Knee Cut Defense, Half Guard Rebuild
Biggest takeaway: Grip-based rebuilds still win.
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What You'll Learn
A gi-oriented retention library from an IBJJF medalist with elite guard survival. Focus on stack, over-under, toreando, leg drag and knee-cut defenses with transitions back to offense. If you train mostly gi and want classic grips baked into your rebuilds, this is a strong choice.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Stack Pass Defense
- Over Under Defense
- Toreando Defense
- Leg Drag Defense
- Knee Cut Defense
- Half Guard Rebuild
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Technique Collection, System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 3 hours and 8 minutes
- Volumes: 4
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I recommend this to collar-and-sleeve players who face strong stack passers.
Why Lucas Valente?
Lucas Valente is an Alliance black belt and IBJJF Worlds medalist known for elite guard retention. His gi game emphasizes posture-breaking grips and disciplined frames. Expect classic, competition-proven solutions with clear details.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Hidden gem for gi retention.
- Valente’s LW guard never seems to open.
- Good structure against stack and over-under specialists.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Less useful for pure no-gi players.
- Some sections feel basics-heavy for advanced belts.
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Smart Alternatives
- Classic Open Guard – Complement your retention with classic grip-based offense. (Price: $79.00)
- Guard Retention Anthology: Around & Under – Cross-pollinate no-gi concepts into your gi game. (Price: $127.00, 8 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View The Encyclopedia of Guard Retention on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
