Ever watched a wrestling match and wondered about those intricate holds that make one competitor tap out? You’re not alone! Wrestling, a blend of athleticism and storytelling, is filled with a fascinating array of techniques. One of the most captivating aspects is the use of submissions. These are maneuvers designed to force an opponent to submit, signaling the end of the match. But how do they work, and what makes them so effective?
This article will explore the world of wrestling submissions. We’ll examine the different types, the psychology behind them, and their impact on the sport. From the classic armbar to more complex holds, we’ll break down the techniques that can turn the tide of any match. Prepare to learn about the strategies and the significance of submitting in wrestling. Let’s get started!
Understanding Submissions in Wrestling
Submissions are a fundamental part of professional wrestling, adding a layer of realism and strategic depth to the matches. Unlike pinfalls, which rely on a three-count, submissions force a wrestler to verbally acknowledge defeat by saying “I quit” or tapping out, signaling the referee to stop the match. This adds a unique element of drama and intensity, as the audience witnesses the physical and mental struggle of the wrestlers.
The effectiveness of submissions lies in their ability to target specific joints or areas of the body, causing intense pain or restricting movement. This forces the opponent to make a difficult decision: endure the pain or concede the match. The strategic use of submissions can be a significant advantage, often leading to a quick victory. It also allows for the storytelling aspect of wrestling, as the wrestler applying the submission can portray dominance, while the one being subjected to it can show resilience.
The origins of submissions in wrestling can be traced back to the roots of the sport, which had elements of legitimate grappling and catch wrestling. Over time, these techniques evolved and were adapted for the entertainment aspect of professional wrestling. Today, submissions are a staple, adding a layer of realism and strategic complexity to the matches.
Common Types of Submission Holds
There are many types of submission holds used in professional wrestling. These can be broadly categorized based on the body part they target. Here are some of the most common:
Arm Submissions
Arm submissions are designed to target the arm, typically the elbow joint. The goal is to hyperextend the elbow or apply pressure to the joint, causing extreme pain. The most well-known arm submission is the armbar.
- Armbar: The armbar involves trapping the opponent’s arm and extending it, applying pressure to the elbow joint. It’s a classic and effective submission, often used to end matches. The attacker usually sits or lies down, using their legs to further secure the opponent’s arm.
- Kimura Lock: This hold involves controlling the opponent’s arm and twisting it behind their back, putting pressure on the shoulder joint. It’s a painful maneuver that can force a quick submission. The attacker usually has a grip on the opponent’s wrist and uses their body to apply the leverage.
Leg Submissions
Leg submissions focus on the legs, specifically the knees or ankles. These holds can cause severe pain and restrict the opponent’s movement.
- Ankle Lock: An ankle lock involves holding the opponent’s foot and applying pressure to the ankle joint. This can be very painful and often results in a quick tap-out. The attacker usually controls the opponent’s foot with their hands and uses their body weight to increase the pressure.
- Figure-Four Leglock: This hold involves trapping the opponent’s leg and applying pressure to the knee joint. It’s a strategic hold that can cause significant pain and restrict the opponent’s mobility. The wrestler’s leg forms a ‘four’ shape with the opponent’s leg, hence the name.
Neck and Head Submissions
Neck and head submissions target the neck or head, creating pressure and potentially choking the opponent.
- Guillotine Choke: This choke involves wrapping the arm around the opponent’s neck, applying pressure to the carotid arteries. This can cause the opponent to lose consciousness if not released promptly. The attacker usually wraps their arm around the opponent’s neck, securing the hold with their other arm.
- Rear Naked Choke: The rear naked choke involves wrapping an arm around the opponent’s neck from behind, squeezing the neck and restricting blood flow. It is a very effective submission hold. The attacker goes behind the opponent, wraps their arm around the neck, and secures the hold with the other arm.
Back and Abdominal Submissions
Back and abdominal submissions are designed to put pressure on the back or abdomen, causing pain and restricting movement.
- Boston Crab: The Boston Crab involves hooking the opponent’s legs and arching their back, putting pressure on the lower back. It can be a painful hold that often leads to submission. The attacker typically faces the opponent, hooks their legs, and arches their back to apply pressure.
- Camel Clutch: This involves the attacker kneeling on the opponent’s back, applying pressure to the spine and abdomen. The Camel Clutch is a classic wrestling move. The attacker kneels on the opponent’s back and pulls their arms back, stretching their spine.
The Psychology and Strategy of Submissions
Submissions in wrestling are not just about physical strength; they are also about strategy and psychology. A well-executed submission can be a statement of dominance, while the act of enduring a submission can showcase resilience and fighting spirit. (See Also: How Is Wrestling Staged )
The strategic use of submissions can change the momentum of a match. A wrestler might target a specific body part, such as an arm or leg, to weaken their opponent before applying a submission. This allows them to wear down their opponent, making the submission more effective. Similarly, a wrestler might employ a submission to counter an opponent’s attack or escape from a difficult situation.
Psychologically, submissions can create a sense of drama and tension for the audience. The sight of a wrestler struggling in a submission hold, with their face contorted in pain, can evoke strong emotions. This can make the audience invested in the match, cheering for the wrestler to escape or submit.
The use of submissions also contributes to the storytelling aspect of wrestling. A wrestler known for their submission skills can establish a reputation as a dangerous opponent. When they apply a submission hold, the audience knows to expect a quick and decisive victory. This can create a unique dynamic between the wrestlers and the crowd.
Notable Submission Specialists
Throughout wrestling history, certain wrestlers have become synonymous with submissions. Their mastery of these holds and their ability to apply them in a way that creates excitement have made them fan favorites.
- Bret Hart: Known for his technical prowess, Bret Hart was a master of the Sharpshooter, a variation of the Boston Crab. His precision and ability to lock in the hold quickly made him a formidable opponent.
- Kurt Angle: An Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, Kurt Angle brought a legitimate wrestling background to his matches. His ankle lock was a devastating finisher, often leading to quick submissions.
- Chris Jericho: A versatile wrestler, Chris Jericho has used various submission holds throughout his career, including the Walls of Jericho (a modified Boston Crab). His charisma and in-ring skills made him a top-tier performer.
- Ken Shamrock: A former UFC champion, Ken Shamrock incorporated his mixed martial arts background into his wrestling style. His ankle lock and other submission holds were incredibly effective.
- Submission Magician: Many wrestlers have become known for their ability to apply submissions. These performers know how to apply holds, and they know how to work the crowd.
How Submissions Are Performed and Refereed
Performing a submission hold requires a combination of technique, strength, and strategy. The wrestler must know the proper grip, leverage, and positioning to apply the hold effectively. They must also be aware of their opponent’s body and react accordingly.
The referee plays a crucial role in overseeing submission holds. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of the wrestlers and stopping the match when a submission is achieved. The referee will typically watch the match closely, observing the wrestlers and listening for the verbal submission (e.g., “I quit” or “Tap out”).
Referees are trained to recognize the signs of a submission, such as a wrestler’s verbal acknowledgment or a clear tap-out. They will also be looking for any signs of injury or distress. If a wrestler is in a submission hold and appears to be in danger, the referee has the authority to stop the match to ensure the wrestler’s safety. The referee’s presence adds another layer of security to the match.
The Impact of Submissions on Wrestling
Submissions have a significant impact on wrestling, both in terms of the matches themselves and the overall perception of the sport.
Enhancing Realism: Submissions add a layer of realism to wrestling. They highlight the physical struggle and the pain involved in a match. This realism can make the matches more engaging for the audience.
Creating Drama: The dramatic element of a submission, with the struggle and the potential for a quick end, adds excitement to the matches. This drama can make the audience more invested in the outcome of the match. (See Also: Is Carmella Coming Back To Wrestling )
Showcasing Skill: Wrestlers who master submission holds are often seen as technically skilled and intelligent. Their ability to apply these holds can enhance their reputation and make them more popular with the audience.
Adding Strategic Depth: The use of submissions adds a layer of strategy to wrestling. Wrestlers must consider which submissions to use, when to apply them, and how to counter their opponent’s submission attempts. This strategic element can make the matches more interesting and complex.
Evolution of Submissions in Wrestling
Submissions have evolved significantly over the history of wrestling. Early wrestling styles often incorporated more basic holds. As the sport evolved, wrestlers began experimenting with more complex and specialized submission techniques, drawing influence from various martial arts and grappling styles.
The integration of different fighting styles, such as Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Catch Wrestling, has contributed to the diversity of submission holds. This has led to the creation of innovative and effective submissions that can be adapted to the specific needs of a match.
The rise of mixed martial arts (MMA) has also had an impact on wrestling, with wrestlers incorporating MMA submission techniques into their arsenals. This has further expanded the range of submissions used in wrestling, increasing the strategic depth and realism of the matches.
Safety Considerations and Training
While submissions are a thrilling part of professional wrestling, safety is paramount. Wrestlers must be properly trained in the techniques of applying and escaping submission holds to minimize the risk of injury.
Training: Wrestlers undergo extensive training to learn the proper techniques for applying submission holds. This includes learning the correct grip, leverage, and positioning to ensure that the hold is effective but does not cause serious injury. The training also includes learning how to escape submission holds. This training is essential.
Safety Measures: Referees are trained to recognize the signs of a submission and stop the match if a wrestler is in danger. Wrestlers are also taught to tap out or verbally submit if they are unable to escape a submission hold. Proper training, referee oversight, and wrestler responsibility are crucial for ensuring the safety of all parties involved.
Submissions in Modern Wrestling
Today, submissions continue to be a crucial aspect of professional wrestling. They are used in all major promotions and are a staple of the sport’s storytelling.
Modern wrestlers continue to innovate, creating new submission holds and adapting existing techniques. The use of submissions is also evolving, with wrestlers using them strategically to target specific body parts or to counter their opponents’ attacks. (See Also: Are Wrestling Briefs Like Speedos )
The audience appreciates the use of submissions. They add drama and excitement to the matches. The use of submissions in modern wrestling is a testament to their enduring appeal and importance in the sport.
Submissions vs. Other Match Endings
While pinfalls and disqualifications are common ways to end a wrestling match, submissions offer a unique and compelling alternative. They can create a sense of drama and tension that is unmatched by other methods.
Pinfalls: Pinfalls rely on a three-count. They are fast-paced and can lead to sudden victories. But, they do not always convey the same level of drama as a submission.
Disqualifications: Disqualifications occur when a wrestler breaks the rules. They can disrupt the flow of a match and often feel less satisfying than a submission or pinfall. Submissions, on the other hand, are a natural and often decisive way to end a match.
Submissions allow for a more emotional and intense conclusion to a match. They highlight the physical and mental struggle of the wrestlers and can create a memorable moment for the audience. They are a powerful tool in storytelling.
The Future of Submissions
The future of submissions in wrestling looks bright. As wrestlers continue to innovate and refine their techniques, submissions will remain a key part of the sport.
The integration of new submission holds and the strategic use of existing techniques will continue to enhance the excitement and drama of wrestling matches. They will continue to be a key component of the wrestlers’ arsenal.
The audience’s appreciation for submissions will also ensure their continued presence in wrestling. They are a fundamental aspect of the sport. Their use will continue to evolve, making the matches more exciting.
Verdict
Submissions are an essential part of professional wrestling, contributing to the drama, strategy, and overall appeal of the sport. From armbars to ankle locks, these holds showcase the physical and mental prowess of wrestlers. They add depth to the matches, creating memorable moments for the audience. The art of the submission is a testament to the evolution of wrestling and its enduring popularity.
