What Martial Art Is Closest to Wrestling?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Martial arts and wrestling are both combat sports that involve grappling techniques and physical strength. While they may have different origins and philosophies, there are several martial arts that share similarities with wrestling. In this article, we will explore some of the martial arts that are closest to wrestling. Judo Judo is a modern Japanese martial art that was developed from various traditional Jujutsu styles. It focuses on using an opponent’s strength and momentum against them through throws, pins, and submissions. Similar to wrestling, Judo emphasizes close combat and clinching techniques. Sambo Sambo is a Russian martial art that combines elements of judo and wrestling. It was developed for the military and emphasizes both standing and ground techniques. Sambo incorporates throws, takedowns, submissions, and pins, making it similar to both Judo and wrestling. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submissions. While BJJ does not have the same emphasis on takedowns as wrestling, it shares many similarities with wrestling when it comes to controlling an opponent on the ground. Greco-Roman Wrestling Greco-Roman is a style of wrestling that originated in ancient Greece and became an Olympic sport. This style of wrestling prohibits holds below the waist, making it similar to judo throws where opponents are lifted off the ground using upper body strength. Greco-Roman wrestlers also use clinches and throws similar to those found in judo. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is another Olympic sport that allows for greater use of leg attacks compared to Greco-Roman style. It features both standing and ground techniques, including takedowns, throws, and pins. Freestyle wrestling’s emphasis on controlling an opponent and gaining advantageous positions shares similarities with various martial arts. Sumo Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport that involves two wrestlers attempting to force each other out of a circular ring or to touch the ground with any part of their body other than their feet. While sumo has its unique rules and rituals, its focus on grappling and physical strength makes it similar to wrestling. In conclusion While there are several martial arts that share similarities with wrestling, Judo, Sambo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Greco-Roman wrestling, freestyle wrestling, and sumo stand out as the closest counterparts. These martial arts incorporate grappling techniques, throws, submissions, and pins that are fundamental to wrestling. Whether you are interested in competing or simply looking for a martial art that emphasizes close combat and physical strength, exploring these disciplines can provide an exciting journey.
