Catch-influenced triangle system that tightens control first, then strangles with ruthless mechanics.
The Bottom Line
You will learn clinch-first triangles with strong shoulder pinning. You will get transitions into armbars and arm triangles. You will not get many gi grip adaptations.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: No-gi controllers
Skip if: Prefer classic grips
Tech focus: Front Triangle, Yoko Sankaku, Shoulder Pin Setups
Biggest takeaway: Clamp before closing
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What You'll Learn
Melanson brings a catch-wrestling flavor to triangles with brutal clinch control, angle shifts and unorthodox grips. Eight parts emphasize aggressive clamps, shoulder pins and transitions to armlocks. Great for no-gi or MMA-oriented grapplers who like controlling ties before closing the figure-four.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Front Triangle
- Reverse Triangle
- Yoko Sankaku
- Shoulder Pin Setups
- Arm Triangle Links
- Closed Guard Entries
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 5 hours and 55 minutes
- Volumes: 8
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I got better finishes by applying his clamp-and-tilt before even locking the figure four.
Why Neil Melanson?
Neil Melanson is a renowned grappling coach known for integrating catch-wrestling mechanics into BJJ, with many UFC fighters on his resume.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Slow, methodical approach improved closed-guard triangles for several users.
- Analytical and technical style transfers well to rolling.
- Fans recommend his instructionals despite mixed reactions overall.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some ideas feel theoretical or low percentage to critics.
- Mixed reactions to his sets; not everyone clicks with the style.
Smart Alternatives
- The Yoku Sankaku Side Triangle by Neil Melanson – A deeper dive on yoko sankaku if you like his style. (Price: $190.00)
- Triangles: Enter The System by John Danaher – More orthodox mechanics and a broader triangle map. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols)
Sources & References
Official listing: View The Science of Filthy Triangles on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
