What Is Cross Face in Wrestling?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling In the world of wrestling, there are various moves and techniques that wrestlers use to gain an advantage over their opponents. One such move is the Cross Face. The Cross Face is a powerful grappling maneuver that can be used to control and dominate an opponent on the mat. What is the Cross Face? The Cross Face is a technique where a wrestler uses their arm to apply pressure on their opponent’s face and neck. This move can be executed from different positions, such as from the top or bottom position, and can be used to set up other moves or to secure a pin. Execution To execute the Cross Face, a wrestler starts by positioning themselves in a favorable position, either on top or underneath their opponent. From there, they will reach across their opponent’s face with one arm, placing their hand on the opposite side of their opponent’s head. Once in position, the wrestler will apply pressure by driving their forearm into their opponent’s face and neck area. The goal is to turn their opponent’s head away from them while maintaining control over their upper body. Uses The Cross Face has several uses in wrestling: Control: By applying the Cross Face, a wrestler can establish control over their opponent. This move allows them to dictate the pace of the match and limit their opponent’s movement options. Set up other moves: The Cross Face can be used as a setup for other moves such as pins or transitions to different positions. Weakening the opponent: Applying pressure with the Cross Face can also wear down an opponent both physically and mentally. It can make it harder for them to breathe and focus on executing their own moves. Counter and Defense As with any move, there are counter techniques and defensive strategies that wrestlers can employ to neutralize the Cross Face. Some common defenses include: Hand fighting: By actively defending their face and neck area, a wrestler can make it more difficult for their opponent to secure a strong Cross Face. Movement: Constantly moving and changing positions can make it challenging for an opponent to apply the Cross Face effectively. Escapes: There are specific techniques and escapes that wrestlers can learn to break free from the Cross Face and regain control of the match. In conclusion The Cross Face is a powerful wrestling move that can be used to gain control over an opponent. By applying pressure on their face and neck, a wrestler can limit their opponent’s movement options and set up other moves. However, as with any move, there are defenses and counters that wrestlers can utilize to neutralize the Cross Face. It is important for wrestlers to learn both how to execute this move effectively and how to defend against it in order to improve their overall performance on the mat.