Most wrestling matches are held on a mat, a circular playing field set up according to the rules of the NCAA and high school wrestling committees. However, you may sometimes find yourself grappling in a fight sport ring. These are either the square, roped rings used by boxers or a fight cage like the UFC's octagon. Though the athletics are similar, the conventions of ring wrestling often differ from that of collegiate and freestyle competition.
Step 1
Understand what kind of competition you've gotten into. Ring wrestling might be a collegiate or freestyle competition on a nontraditional surface, or it might be another kind of grappling competition altogether. If it's not your preferred style of wrestling, learn the rules of this competition before stepping in the ring.
Step 2
Find your corner. This will often be marked, or you'll be pointed to it. Until you're called by the referee, most rules will restrict you to your corner.
Step 3
Come to the center of the ring when called by the referee. He may or may not conduct a brief ritual associated with beginning the competition. When this is done, return to your corner until the action starts.
Step 4
Approach your opponent when the bell or buzzer begins the match. Try to maintain a position at the center of the ring, with your opponent circling you. This will force him to expend more energy looking for an advantageous position, giving you a competitive edge.
Step 5
Observe all rules of the competition as you understand them. Depending on the kind of wrestling you're doing, you may or may not be able to strike, throw, choke, sweep or use other specific moves. Scoring conventions may also dictate your strategy.
Step 6
Use the ropes if the fight draws you near them. Few rules allow you to actually grab the ropes, but you can corner your opponent against them to restrict his movement, or use them to support you and resist his attempts to control you.
Step 7
Return to your corner when the buzzer sounds. If it's a break between rounds, you will wait there until action resumes. If it's the end of the match, you will wait until called to the center for the referee to announce the scorekeeper's decision.
Things You'll Need
- Appropriate wrestling uniform
- Safety equipment
References
- "MMA For Dummies"; Frank Shamrock; 2009
- Titi Tudorancea Bulletin: The Wrestling Ring
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