Is the Banana Split Legal in Wrestling?

Wrestling moves have always been a topic of great interest and debate among fans and athletes alike. One move that often sparks curiosity is the famous Banana Split.

But is this move legal in professional wrestling? Let’s find out.

The Banana Split: A Brief Overview

The Banana Split is a submission hold commonly used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling sports. It involves stretching an opponent’s legs apart in opposite directions, putting immense pressure on their groin area and hip joints.

This move gets its name from the resemblance it bears to the dessert dish, where two scoops of ice cream are split by a banana. While it may sound harmless, executing this move can cause significant pain and discomfort to the person on the receiving end.

The Legality of the Banana Split in Wrestling

When it comes to professional wrestling, the rules regarding specific moves can vary depending on the promotion or organization. While some promotions allow a wide range of submission holds, others may have stricter regulations to ensure wrestler safety.

In traditional pro wrestling, which focuses more on entertainment than pure competition, the Banana Split is rarely seen. This is because it can be considered too dangerous or risky for performers who are not trained extensively in submission grappling techniques.

Professional Wrestling Organizations’ Stance

Major professional wrestling organizations such as WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) have strict guidelines and protocols in place to protect their wrestlers from unnecessary risks. Moves like the Banana Split fall into a category known as “illegal holds” within these organizations.

Safety: The primary concern for these organizations is ensuring the safety and well-being of their performers. Moves like the Banana Split involve high risks of injury, especially when executed improperly or by inexperienced wrestlers.
Ethics and Image: Professional wrestling organizations also consider the public perception and image associated with their brand.
Moves that may be deemed inappropriate or overly violent are often disallowed to maintain a family-friendly environment.
Storytelling: Another reason why the Banana Split may not be legal in professional wrestling is the need for a coherent and engaging story. While submission holds are an integral part of pro wrestling, moves like the Banana Split may not fit into the narrative or characters involved in a specific match or storyline.

Exceptions and Variations

Although the Banana Split is generally considered illegal in mainstream professional wrestling, there have been instances where variations of this move have been used within certain contexts.

In independent wrestling promotions or niche grappling events that allow more freedom in maneuver selection, wrestlers with extensive submission backgrounds may incorporate modified versions of the Banana Split into their repertoire. However, even in these cases, it is crucial for all participants to ensure they execute the move safely and responsibly.

In Conclusion

The Banana Split is not legal in mainstream professional wrestling due to safety concerns, ethical considerations, and the need for cohesive storytelling. While it remains a popular submission hold in other grappling sports, its risks and potential for injury make it unsuitable for most professional wrestling organizations.

As fans of pro wrestling, we must appreciate the efforts made by these organizations to prioritize wrestler safety while still providing us with exciting and entertaining matches. So next time you watch a wrestling event, keep an eye out for other incredible moves that are both thrilling and permitted!