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João Miyao is a Brazilian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and one of the most influential lightweight competitors of the modern era. Known for his exceptional guard work, berimbolo system, and technical precision, Miyao became one of the defining athletes of the 2010s generation and helped popularise modern inverted guard and back-taking strategies in competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Early Life
João Ricardo Bordignon Miyao was born on May 11, 1991, in Andirá, Paraná, Brazil. He grew up alongside his twin brother Paulo Miyao, who would also become one of the world’s top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors.
The Miyao brothers began their martial arts journey through judo before discovering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 16. They initially trained under Adriano Carvalho before moving to São Paulo to pursue higher-level training through Cícero Costha’s PSLPB (Projeto Social Lutando Pelo Bem) programme.
Rise Through the Ranks
João Miyao quickly gained attention as one of the most talented young competitors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Alongside his brother Paulo, he dominated the coloured belt divisions, winning major national and international tournaments before earning their black belts.
The Miyao brothers received their black belts from Cícero Costha in 2013, entering the elite adult division with an already established reputation as two of the sport’s most exciting prospects.
Black Belt Career
At black belt, João Miyao became one of the most successful featherweight competitors in the world. He competed regularly in the biggest tournaments and professional events, building a reputation for technical innovation and incredible consistency.
His career includes appearances at:
- IBJJF World Championship
- IBJJF Pan Championship
- IBJJF European Championship
- IBJJF World No-Gi Championship
- Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
- ADCC events
- Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI)
- ACBJJ events
- Professional submission grappling superfights
Major Achievements
João Miyao has achieved numerous major titles throughout his career, including:
- IBJJF World Champion (2019)
- Multiple-time IBJJF No-Gi World Champion
- IBJJF Pan Champion
- Multiple IBJJF World Championship medals
- ACBJJ Grand Prix Champion (60 kg division)
- Multiple international tournament victories
His success has made him one of the most decorated lightweight grapplers of his generation.
Competition Style
João Miyao is widely regarded as one of the greatest guard players in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history. His style is built around:
- Berimbolo attacks
- Inverted guard systems
- Back takes
- De La Riva guard
- Modern open guard retention
- Dynamic transitions
- Technical precision
Miyao’s ability to create offensive opportunities from difficult positions helped influence a new generation of lightweight competitors and contributed to the worldwide popularity of the berimbolo system.