Torreando Pass
Bullfighter pass using collar or ankle grips to run around the legs — a high-tempo staple in modern passing.
From Standing or Kneeling vs GuardTo Side Control
Overview
The torreando (bullfighter) pass controls the opponent’s legs or lapels and redirects them to one side while the passer runs around to side control. It is one of the most popular guard passes in competition because it works in gi and no-gi at all belt levels.
#Control and Redirect
- Grip both ankles or pant legs and pin knees together
- Push legs to one side while stepping to the opposite
- Keep grips tight until hips pass the knee line
#Circle to Side Control
- Run around the legs with chest low and head leading
- Drop hips into side control with crossface and underhook
- Block hip escape with knee or hand on mat
Key Grips & Control Points
- Double pant cuffs or ankle grips in no-gi
- Same-side collar and opposite sleeve in gi
- Push knees to one side while circling
Timing & Movement Cues
- Pass when the opponent’s feet lose hip alignment with their shoulders
- Push legs together before redirecting to the side
- Run the circle as soon as the legs clear your center line
Typical Counters to Expect
- De la Riva hook when one ankle is controlled loosely
- Granby roll when legs are pushed but not pinned
- Frame on hips during the run-around
Follow-Up Options
- Knee slide when they recover half guard
- North-south when they turn away from side control
- Back step when they invert
Setups & Entries
- Grip fighting to collapse ankles together
- Fake knee cut to one side before torreando the other
- Stand-up guard break into ankle control
Training Drills
- Ankle pin and circle drill with minimal resistance
- Torreando to side control stabilization rounds
- Pass chaining: torreando to knee slide reactions
Coaching Notes
- Control both legs before moving — one free foot hooks
- Stay low during the run; upright passes get re-guarded
- Land in side control with underhook already secured
Related Study
Connect this movement with complementary positions and attacks.
Summary
Torreando passing is about leg control and tempo. Pin the feet, push to an angle, circle fast, and land in side control before they recover frames.