What Moves Are Illegal in Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a sport that requires skill, technique, and discipline. It is important for wrestlers to understand the rules and regulations governing their matches to compete fairly and safely. In this article, we will delve into the topic of illegal moves in wrestling, exploring what wrestlers should avoid doing to stay within the boundaries of the sport. 1. Hair Pulling One of the most commonly known illegal moves in wrestling is hair pulling. This move involves grabbing an opponent’s hair to gain an unfair advantage. Not only is hair pulling unethical, but it can also cause injury to the person being pulled. 2. Eye Gouging Another highly prohibited move in wrestling is eye gouging. This dangerous technique involves using fingers or thumbs to thrust into the eyes of an opponent with the intention of causing pain or impaired vision. Eye gouging can lead to severe injuries and even permanent damage. 3. Biting Biting is strictly forbidden in wrestling matches due to its potential for causing harm and transmitting diseases. It involves using one’s teeth to bite an opponent’s skin or body parts, which can result in cuts, bruises, and infections. 4. Groin Strikes Groin strikes are considered illegal moves in wrestling as they Target a sensitive area of the body: the groin region. This type of attack includes punches, kicks, or any forceful contact aimed at the genitals or pubic area of an opponent, which can cause extreme pain and injury. 5. Small Joint Manipulation Small joint manipulation refers to intentionally bending fingers or toes beyond their normal range of motion with excessive force. This move not only inflicts pain but also poses a high risk of dislocation, fractures, or ligament tears. Consequently, it is deemed illegal in wrestling. 6. Striking the Back of the Head Striking the back of the head is strictly prohibited in wrestling due to its potential for severe injury. This move involves hitting or striking an opponent on the back of their head or neck area, which can lead to concussions, spinal cord injuries, or other serious harm. 7. Poking or Jabbing Poking or jabbing an opponent is against the rules in wrestling. This illegal move includes using fingers or any other objects to poke or jab an opponent’s body parts with excessive force. These actions can cause pain, injury, and disrupt the fairness of the match. 8. Throat Strikes Striking or attacking an opponent’s throat is considered a dangerous and illegal move in wrestling. It involves intentionally hitting, choking, or applying pressure to the throat area with hands, elbows, forearms, or any other body part. Such actions can lead to difficulty breathing and potential damage to vital structures. Conclusion In conclusion, wrestlers must adhere to a set of rules and regulations that govern their matches and ensure fair competition. Understanding what moves are illegal in wrestling is crucial for both competitors and officials to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants. By avoiding these prohibited techniques such as hair pulling, eye gouging, biting, groin strikes, small joint manipulation, striking the back of the head, poking or jabbing, and throat strikes; wrestlers can compete ethically and responsibly while minimizing the risk of injuries.