A specialized side-triangle toolkit that turns top pressure into fast strangulations.
The Bottom Line
You will learn yoko sankaku entries from top positions. You will get finish mechanics that rely on shoulder rotation and clamps. You will not get beginner-friendly foundational triangles.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Top-game hunters
Skip if: On a budget
Tech focus: Yoko Sankaku, Side Triangle, Crucifix Triangle
Biggest takeaway: Shoulder rotation matters
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What You'll Learn
A niche deep dive into side triangles (yoko sankaku) with entries from dominant and transitional positions. Strong clamp control and shoulder rotation details help you finish without perfect leg length. Best if you already land classical triangles and want a specialized top-game answer.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Yoko Sankaku
- Side Triangle
- Crucifix Triangle
- Kimura Trap To Triangle
- Top Side Entries
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Should You Buy It?
Skip. I saw immediate gains by prioritizing shoulder bite before worrying about the leg lock angle.
Why Neil Melanson?
Neil Melanson is a veteran coach blending catch-wrestling and BJJ, known for unconventional but effective strangulation pathways.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Side/reverse triangles can be high percentage when understood.
- Practical locking tips help close the choke faster.
- Catch-style angles offer a different look for top players.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Some see these setups as low percentage or situational.
- Price is high for a niche focus.
Smart Alternatives
- The Science of Filthy Triangles by Neil Melanson – Broader no-gi triangle approach at a lower price. (Price: $127.00, 8 vols)
- Invisible Triangle Concepts by Braulio Estima – Includes reverse and inverted concepts with proven pedigree. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols, 2020)
Sources & References
Official listing: View The Yoku Sankaku Side Triangle on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.