Toreando Pass: Master the “Bullfighter” Pass in BJJ

Toreando Pass: Master the “Bullfighter” Pass in BJJ

By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Reviewed by competitive black belts | Last Updated: February 1, 2026

The Toreando Pass (or Bullfighter Pass) is one of the most explosive and effective techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Unlike pressure passes where you crush the opponent slowly, the Toreando is about speed, angles, and misdirection. It was the signature weapon of Leandro Lo, who used his relentless Toreando to dominate the heavyweight division for a decade.

In this guide, we break down the mechanics of the Toreando and how to chain it with other passes like the Knee Slice.

What is the Toreando Pass?

The name “Toreando” comes from the Spanish word for “Bullfighting.” Just like a matador redirects a charging bull, you redirect your opponent’s legs to clear a path to Side Control.

• The Grips: You control the opponent’s pants (usually at the knees or shins).
• The Motion: You push one leg down and pull the other leg up (steering wheel motion) or throw both legs to one side.
• The Finish: You step around their guard and drop your shoulder onto their chest to secure the pin.

As Evolve MMA explains, the goal is to create a disconnection between their knees and their chest.

The Leandro Lo Variation (Modern Style)

The “Old School” Toreando involved just throwing the legs and running. Leandro Lo changed the game by adding pressure to the speed.

The “Active Post” Concept

Instead of just throwing the legs, Leandro would:

1. Stiff Arm: Lock his arms straight, putting all his weight into the grips on the knees.
2. Step In: Step deep between the opponent’s legs while keeping his arms stiff.
3. Reaction: If the opponent pushed back, he would throw their legs to the side. If they didn’t push back, he would drive his knee to the mat for a Knee Slice.

Step-by-Step: The Classic Throw-By

This is the fundamental version everyone must learn.

1. Grips: Grab the inside of both knees (Gi) or cup the shins (No-Gi).
2. Step Back: Take a small step back to straighten the opponent’s legs.
3. The Throw: Violently push their legs to your left while you step to your right.
4. The Drop: As you clear their legs, drop your left shoulder directly onto their sternum to stop them from turtling.

Chaining Attacks: The “One-Two” Punch

The Toreando rarely works on the first try against good guys. You need to chain it.

• Toreando -> Knee Slice: Fake the throw to the left. When they open their legs to recover, dive your knee into the middle for a Knee Slice Pass.
• Toreando -> Leg Drag: If they kick their leg across to stop you, drag that leg across your body into a Leg Drag.

Troubleshooting: Common Mistakes

Mistake #1: Bent Arms
If your elbows are bent, the opponent can break your grips or pull you into Spider Guard.
The Fix: Keep your arms straight and stiff, like steel rods.

Mistake #2: Leaving Hips Behind
If you throw the legs but don’t move your feet, they will recover.
The Fix: Your feet must move with your hands. Think “Throw and Go.”

Mistake #3: Landing Too High
If you land on their chest, they will roll you.
The Fix: Land hip-to-hip or drop your shoulder low. Keep your weight heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Torreando or Toreada?
Both are used. “Toreando” is the most common spelling in the BJJ community, though “Toreada” is technically closer to the Portuguese usage.

Does it work in No-Gi?
Yes. In No-Gi, you can’t grab the pants, so you cup the shins or ankles. It is harder to hold, so you must be faster.

Conclusion

The Toreando Pass teaches you the value of footwork and loose passing. It is the perfect complement to heavy pressure passing.

Drill the “side-to-side” motion until your feet move automatically.