Is the Guillotine Legal in Wrestling?

Wrestling is a sport that requires skill, technique, and adherence to rules and regulations. One popular move that often comes into question is the guillotine. Wrestlers and fans alike have debated whether or not this move is legal within the confines of the sport. In this article, we will explore the guillotine in wrestling and determine its legality.

The Guillotine: A Controversial Move

The guillotine is a submission hold commonly used in mixed martial arts (MMA) and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It involves wrapping one arm around an opponent’s neck while clasping hands together to create pressure on the throat. This move aims to cut off blood circulation and induce a tap-out from the opponent.

So, is it legal in wrestling?

The Rules of Wrestling

Before we dive into the legality of the guillotine in wrestling, let’s take a look at some of the basic rules governing this sport.

Pinfall: The objective of wrestling is to pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat for a specified amount of time (usually two seconds) to secure a win.
Takedown: Wrestlers attempt to take their opponent down to the mat using various techniques such as single-leg takedowns, double-leg takedowns, or throws.
Escapes: If a wrestler finds themselves pinned or trapped, they can work towards escaping their opponent’s hold by using specific techniques and movements.

Evaluating Guillotine’s Legality

Now, let’s address the legality of the guillotine in wrestling.

According to the official rules of most wrestling organizations, the guillotine is considered an illegal move.

Why is it illegal?

The primary reason behind this decision is safety. Wrestlers are not allowed to Target their opponent’s neck or throat area. The risk of injury, such as choking or damage to the windpipe, is significant when executing a guillotine hold. Therefore, it is prohibited in regulated wrestling competitions.

Exceptions and Variations

While the standard guillotine is not permitted, certain variations might be allowed depending on the organization and level of competition. For instance:

An arm-in guillotine, where one arm remains inside instead of clasping hands together, may be legal in some cases.
A front headlock position, similar to a guillotine but without applying pressure to the throat, may also be permitted.

The Importance of Safety

The decision to make the guillotine illegal emphasizes the importance of safety in wrestling. This combat sport requires rigorous training and adherence to rules to minimize injuries and protect participants from harm.

In Conclusion

The guillotine is generally considered an illegal move in wrestling due to safety concerns. While variations or similar positions may be allowed under certain circumstances, Targeting an opponent’s neck or throat area is strictly prohibited.

Wrestlers should always prioritize their safety and follow the rules set forth by governing bodies for fair and competitive matches. Remember that wrestling can be a physically demanding sport that requires skillful execution rather than relying on potentially dangerous moves like the guillotine.