Master the Move: Toreando Guard Pass by John Danaher

What will You Learn?

Master one of the most dominant and reliable guard passing systems in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Master the Move: Toreando Guard Pass by John Danaher.

Widely regarded as the most influential coach in modern grappling, Danaher has built a legacy of producing world champions and redefining how Jiu-Jitsu is taught and understood. In this comprehensive instructional, he turns his attention to the toreando (bullfighter) pass—arguably the highest percentage and most versatile guard pass in the sport.

This isn’t just a collection of techniques. It’s a complete system.

Danaher breaks down the toreando from first principles, giving you a deep understanding of positioning, timing, grips, and movement so you can consistently pass even the most difficult guards. Whether you're dealing with speed-based players or highly defensive opponents, this series equips you with the tools to shut down resistance and impose your game.

Used at the highest levels of competition by elite athletes, the toreando becomes more than a pass—it becomes a strategic weapon.

If you want to upgrade your guard passing with a proven, battle-tested system, this is your blueprint.

• Learn the complete toreando guard passing system from one of the greatest coaches in BJJ history
• Master the concepts behind grip control, angle creation, and opponent manipulation
• Discover high-percentage entries that work against modern guard systems
• Understand how to shut down common counters and retain dominant positioning
• Build speed, timing, and precision with step-by-step technical instruction
• Adapt the toreando for both gi and no-gi applications
• Integrate the pass into a broader offensive strategy for consistent success
• Train like elite competitors who rely on this system at the highest levels
• Perfect for all levels—clear enough for beginners, deep enough for advanced practitioners
• Develop a reliable, repeatable path to passing even the toughest guards

What Exactly Do You Get?

Part 1: Foundations

• Introduction
• 8 Core Principles of Toreando Passing

Part 2: Passing a Square Stance

The Approach

• Reading Your Opponent
• Stance and Contact
• Defensive Responsibility
• Forcing Your Opponent Into a Supine Position

Essential Toreando Entries

• The First 2 Toreando Passes You Must Learn
  • Hip and Knee Post
  • Hip and Head Post

Problem Solving & Control

• Problem Solving Through Your Opponent’s Defensive Reactions
• Fighting From the J Point

Part 3: Solving Defensive Leg Positioning

Solving the Problem of the Inside Leg

• Swim to Far Leg
• Knee Cut
• Drop to Half Guard
• Backtracking
• High Step Pass
• Patty Cake Pass

Solving the Problem of the Outside Leg

• Pommel Outside Leg
• Reverse Scoop Grip
• Far Side Ankle Control
• Pressure Leg Drag
• Knee Shuck

Part 4: Advanced & Specialty Toreando Systems

Specialty Toreando Passes

• 2-on-1 Throw-By Pass
• Sit-Out Toreando

Advanced Studies

• Special Study: Throw-By Passes
• Special Topic: Reverse Scoop Series
• Special Study: Cross Step Toreando Passing

Passing a Side-On Stance

• Passing a Side-On Stance
• The Central Problems of Passing a Side-On Stance

Part 5: The Crossover Step & North-South System

The Crossover Step Series

• Crossover Step to Knee on Belly
• Crossover Step to Reverse Body Lock Tackle
• Crossover Step to North-South Tripod
• Misdirectional Crossover Step
• The 2-Handed Guard Pass
• The Misdirectional Guard Pass

Reverse Toreando / North-South Passing

• Advantages of North-South Passing
• Using Motion to Get to North-South Position
• The Premier Passing Position: Tripod Camping
• Fighting From the Tripod Position
• North-South Toes to Mat

Part 6: Troubleshooting & Leg Drag Systems

Troubleshooting Toreando Passing

• Getting Stuck in Opponent’s Legs / Knee Shield
  • Knee Cut
  • High Step Pass
  • Smash Pass
  • Arm Weave Guard Pass

Dealing With Seated Guards

• When You Cannot Force a Supine Guard
• Supine to Seated Transition: Side Body Lock
• Toreando vs Seated Guard

Special Study: Leg Drags

• Using Movement to Set Up No-Gi Leg Drags
• Leg Drag Throw-By
• Leg Drag to Knee Cut
• Far Side Leg Drag

Part 7: Toes to Mat & Misdirection Concepts

Toes to Mat Series

• Single Toes to Mat
• Double Toes to Mat
• Reverse Toes to Mat

Advanced Concepts

• Reverse Throw-Bys
• The Iron Law of Misdirection