Learn reliable back entries from side control, guard, mount, and standup.
The Bottom Line
Maia connects passes and sweeps to back exposure using simple triggers. The curriculum covers top and bottom entries plus standup counters like single-leg whizzer switches. Store feedback shows a 5.0 average from 13 reviews, signaling strong buyer approval (product page).
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: You reach back inconsistently
Skip if: You want gi lapels
Tech focus: Back Takes, Arm Drag, Single Leg Counters, Half Guard To Back, Guard Pass To Back, Turtle Entries, Mount To Back
Biggest takeaway: Create back exposure on purpose.
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What You'll Learn
Three volumes on how Maia exposes and captures the back from everywhere: side control, passing, mount, half guard, closed guard, standup single-leg counters, and turtle. It also includes defensive principles so you do not trade position for scrambles.
If you reach the back inconsistently, this fills the gap between passes/sweeps and finishes.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Back Takes
- Arm Drag
- Single Leg Counters
- Half Guard To Back
- Guard Pass To Back
- Turtle Entries
- Mount To Back
- Chin Triceps Control
- Bowling Move
- Back Defense Principles
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 3 hours
- Volumes: 3
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I started catching more backs when I hunted exposure moments instead of forcing a specific move.
Why Demian Maia?
Demian Maia is an ADCC champion and UFC title challenger whose game revolves around taking and keeping the back. His transitions are built on inducing predictable reactions, then capitalizing. BJJHeroes documents his competitive pedigree. Expect calm, precise delivery with clear positional goals and contingencies.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Covers entries from top, guard, and standup with clear logic.
- Half-guard to back sequences are practical and high percentage.
- Defensive rules keep you safe while hunting the back.
- Great alternative perspective if you do not like straight-jacket entries.
- Short lessons make drilling easier.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some wanted more wrestling-style takedown entries.
- Three volumes felt short compared to longer systems.
- No gi grips; gi players miss collar-based routes.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- The Maia Backpack System: Controlling The Back – Pair entries with retention for maximum results. (Price: $197.00, 4 vols)
- How To Take The Back (Garry Tonon) – If you want a faster-paced, wrestling-influenced entry set. (Price: $197.00)
- The Maia Backpack System Bundle – Get all entries, control, and finishes in one purchase. (Price: $447.00, 11 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View The Maia Backpack System: Transitions To The Back on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.