The original Miyao library blends DLR, inverted guard, and berimbolo with dozens of entries and chained finishes for back-take specialists.
The Bottom Line
This classic four-volume set captures the Miyaos' core positions and transitions. You will see many entries, lapel options, and bolo finishes from DLR and inverted guard. You will not get the same systematic decision-making and clarity as newer releases.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Experienced bolo players
Skip if: You want hand-holding
Tech focus: Berimbolo, De La Riva, X Guard, Leg Drag, Lapel Guards, Inverted Guard
Biggest takeaway: Historic but less structured
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What You'll Learn
The original Miyao library that popularized their modern guard approach. Expect De La Riva, inverted guard routes, lapel options, and berimbolo chains across four volumes.
Historically important and still useful, but the pedagogy feels more like a technique collection than a cohesive system by today's standards.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Berimbolo
- De La Riva
- X Guard
- Leg Drag
- Back Takes
- Lapel Guards
- Inverted Guard
- Double Pull
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Technique Collection, System Based
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 2 hours and 55 minutes
- Volumes: 4
- Released: 2016
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I recommend treating this as a reference library and pairing it with a structured bolo system for day-one sequencing.
Why The Miyao Brothers?
The Miyao Brothers, Paulo and Joao, are twin black belts under Cicero Costha. They helped popularize berimbolo and modern guard trends in high-level gi competition. Their approach emphasizes DLR, inversion, lapel control, and relentless back chases. Despite controversies, their technical impact on sport BJJ is undeniable. This set captures that era-defining style.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Smaller practitioners are urged to study Miyaos to avoid getting smashed.
- Viewers reported hitting berimbolos after drilling sequences from Miyao footage.
- Fans argue the Miyaos brought dynamic, modern action to competition.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Common complaint: overdubbed Portuguese and thin explanations compared to newer releases.
- Critics consider the style too sport-focused and sometimes stalling.
- Controversy around the brothers turned some viewers off their material.
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Smart Alternatives
- Berimbolo 2.0: The Modern System by Paulo Miyao – Cleaner, more structured teaching of the same core game. (Price: $97.00, 3 vols, 2023)
- The Berimbolo System Part 1: The Foundation by Mikey Musumeci – Deeper, stepwise framework with extensive counters and drills. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols, 2020)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View The Berimbolo and Beyond by The Miyao Brothers on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
