What Is a Chicken Wing in Wrestling?

Wrestling is a fascinating sport that combines athleticism, strategy, and showmanship. One move that has become iconic in the world of professional wrestling is the chicken wing. In this article, we will explore what exactly a chicken wing is in wrestling and how it is executed.

The Chicken Wing Move

The chicken wing is a submission hold commonly used by wrestlers to immobilize and control their opponents. It primarily Targets the arm and shoulder of an opponent, putting immense pressure on these areas to force a submission. As the name suggests, the move resembles the position of a chicken’s wing when it is being held or controlled.

Execution

To execute a chicken wing, a wrestler typically starts by isolating one of their opponent’s arms. This can be achieved through various techniques such as arm drags, armbars, or even strikes to weaken the arm. Once the arm is secured, the wrestler then manipulates it into a position where it can be controlled effectively.

• Step 1: The wrestler grabs their opponent’s wrist with one hand.
• Step 2: Using their other hand, they reach under their opponent’s arm and lock their hands together.
• Step 3: With both hands locked together, the wrestler applies pressure on their opponent’s arm and shoulder by bending it backward.

Variations

The chicken wing move has several variations that wrestlers have developed over time. These variations may involve different grips or positions to increase effectiveness or add flair to the move. Some common variations include:

• Straight Arm Chicken Wing: In this variation, instead of bending the opponent’s arm backward, the wrestler applies pressure on the arm by keeping it straight.
• Double Chicken Wing: This variation involves using both hands to control both of the opponent’s arms simultaneously, creating a double submission hold.
• Chicken Wing Facebuster: Here, the wrestler adds impact to the move by dropping their opponent’s face onto the mat while maintaining the chicken wing hold.

Influence in Wrestling

The chicken wing move has had a significant influence on professional wrestling. It has been utilized by many legendary wrestlers throughout history, including Bob Backlund, who popularized it during his reign as WWE Champion in the 1970s.

The move’s versatility and effectiveness have made it a staple in various wrestling styles, from technical wrestling to high-flying lucha libre. Its visual appeal and potential for dramatic storytelling have also contributed to its popularity amongst both wrestlers and fans.

In conclusion, the chicken wing is a powerful submission hold in wrestling that Targets the arm and shoulder of an opponent. Its execution requires skill and technique, making it an essential move for any wrestler. With its variations and historical significance, the chicken wing continues to captivate audiences worldwide.