Paulo updates the berimbolo with a clear, competition-tested gi system that turns De La Riva entries and common reactions into controlled back takes.
The Bottom Line
If you already play DLR and want higher conversion on back takes, this gives you a mapped flow from entries to reactions. You will drill inversion mechanics, leg-drag finishes, and twister-hook control. You will not get a no-gi path or a broad open-guard encyclopedia.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: DLR bolo hunters
Skip if: You avoid inversion
Tech focus: Berimbolo, De La Riva, Back Takes, Leg Drag, Inversion, Twister Hook
Biggest takeaway: Upgrade bolo timing and reactions
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What You'll Learn
Paulo Miyao revisits his signature game with a modernized, structured berimbolo system. The focus is gi-based De La Riva entries, inversion mechanics, and reaction chains that finish on the back.
Compared with the older Miyao DVDs, this set uses clearer English instruction and emphasizes decision points, not just moves. It is aimed at competitors and hobbyists who already play DLR and want reliable back-take pathways.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Berimbolo
- De La Riva
- Back Takes
- Leg Drag
- Inversion
- Twister Hook
- X Guard
- Reactions
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Drill Heavy
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 1 hour and 17 minutes
- Volumes: 3
- Released: 2023
Should You Buy It?
Buy it now. I found the biggest gains came from drilling Paulo's reaction trees, which cut guesswork when opponents kick, sit, or stuff the bolo.
Why Paulo Miyao?
Paulo Miyao is a black belt under Cicero Costha and a two-time IBJJF black belt world champion. He is renowned for berimbolo excellence and elite guard retention. Paulo and his twin, Joao, dominated colored belts and transitioned to black belt success. He later focused on coaching while still competing in superfights. His technical teaching emphasizes angles, grips, and safety in inversion work.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Clearer and more concise than the early Miyao DVD with better English instruction.
- People asking for a complete bolo system often point to this newer course.
- Many agree berimbolo still scores at high levels for lighter athletes.
- Seminar stories praise Paulo's precise details and safety-minded coaching.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some still prefer Musumeci's multi-volume framework for depth and pedagogy.
- Frequent complaints that Fanatics production lags behind JiuJitsuX quality.
- Critics say bolo favors lightweights and is less universal across divisions.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- The Berimbolo System Part 1: The Foundation by Mikey Musumeci – More exhaustive bolo curriculum if you want maximal depth. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols, 2020)
- No Gi Berimbolo System Part 1 by Mikey Musumeci – Best non-gi option if you play bolo without grips. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols)
- The Berimbolo System Bundle by Mikey Musumeci – All-in bundle when you want the entire Musumeci series. (Price: $647.00, 2025)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Berimbolo 2.0: The Modern System by Paulo Miyao on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
