Who Started Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling, a popular sport that involves physical combat between two individuals, has a long and rich history. It is believed to be one of the oldest forms of combat sports, with evidence of its existence dating back thousands of years. In this article, we will explore the origins of wrestling and the different cultures that contributed to its development. The Ancient Origins Wrestling can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. These early forms of wrestling were often associated with religious rituals and were practiced as a means of proving one’s strength and skill. In ancient Egypt, wrestling was depicted in numerous wall paintings found in tombs. It was considered an important form of physical training for soldiers and was even included in military training programs. The ancient Greeks also had a deep-rooted tradition of wrestling. The sport was showcased in the Olympic Games as early as 708 BC. Greek wrestlers competed nude and covered their bodies with olive oil to make it more challenging for opponents to gain a grip. Wrestling in Ancient Cultures Greek Wrestling Pankration: The Greeks also developed another form of wrestling called pankration, which combined elements of boxing and wrestling. Pankration matches were incredibly brutal, allowing almost no rules apart from prohibiting eye gouging or biting. Greco-Roman Wrestling: This style emerged during the Roman Empire and became popularized in both Greece and Rome. It focused on grappling techniques but prohibited holds below the waist. Roman Wrestling Catch Wrestling: The Romans also practiced a form of wrestling known as “catch wrestling.” It involved using various holds and submissions to defeat opponents. Catch wrestling eventually evolved into the modern professional wrestling seen today. Wrestling in Modern Times Throughout history, wrestling continued to evolve and gain popularity in different parts of the world. In the 19th century, modern professional wrestling emerged as a form of entertainment, combining athletic skill with dramatic storylines. Today, various styles of wrestling exist worldwide. Freestyle wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling are the two main disciplines practiced in Olympic competitions. Professional wrestling, on the other hand, has evolved into a global phenomenon with organizations such as WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) captivating audiences around the world. In Conclusion While it is difficult to pinpoint an exact individual or culture that started wrestling, its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece. Wrestling has since evolved into diverse forms practiced in different parts of the world, showcasing both athletic prowess and captivating storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Olympic-style competition or enjoy the spectacle of professional wrestling, this ancient sport continues to thrive and entertain audiences worldwide.
