Who Started Rudis Wrestling?By Coder| September 1, 2023 Wrestling Have you ever wondered who started Rudis Wrestling? Let’s dive into the history of this ancient sport and explore its origins. The Origins of Rudis Wrestling Rudis Wrestling is a form of wrestling that dates back to ancient Rome. It was a popular sport during the Roman Empire and played a significant role in their culture. What is Rudis Wrestling? Rudis Wrestling, also known as “lucta rudis” in Latin, is a style of wrestling that involves grappling techniques and physical strength. It is characterized by its emphasis on technique and strategy rather than brute force alone. In Rudis Wrestling, two competitors face each other on a matted surface called the “lucus.” The objective is to take down your opponent and maintain control over them. Points are awarded for various moves, including takedowns, pins, and escapes. The Birth of Rudis Wrestling The origins of Rudis Wrestling are closely tied to the gladiatorial games that were popular in ancient Rome. These games often included wrestling matches as part of the entertainment. However, it was not until Emperor Nero’s reign from 54 to 68 AD that Rudis Wrestling gained official recognition as a sport separate from gladiatorial combat. Nero himself was an enthusiastic supporter of the sport and even participated in matches himself. The Influence of Greek Wrestling Ancient Greek wrestling played a significant role in shaping the development of Rudis Wrestling. The Romans were heavily influenced by Greek culture, including their sporting traditions. Greek wrestling, known as “palé,” featured similar grappling techniques and tactics. The Romans adopted these techniques but added their own unique twists to create what we now know as Rudis Wrestling. The Legacy of Rudis Wrestling Rudis Wrestling continued to be a popular sport throughout the Roman Empire. It was not only practiced as a form of entertainment but also served as a training method for Roman soldiers. Wrestling skills were essential for hand-to-hand combat, making Rudis Wrestling a vital part of military training. As the Roman Empire declined, so did the popularity of Rudis Wrestling. However, its influence can still be seen in modern-day wrestling styles and techniques. Rudis Wrestling Today While Rudis Wrestling may no longer be widely practiced as it once was, its legacy lives on in various forms of modern wrestling. The techniques and strategies developed in ancient Rome continue to shape the sport today. Freestyle wrestling: This Olympic-style wrestling incorporates many elements of Rudis Wrestling, such as takedowns and pins. Greco-Roman wrestling: Another Olympic-style wrestling discipline that focuses on upper-body throws and holds, similar to Rudis Wrestling’s emphasis on technique. Professional wrestling: While more theatrical in nature, professional wrestling still draws inspiration from the grappling techniques used in Rudis Wrestling. In conclusion, Rudis Wrestling has a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome. Its influence can be seen in various forms of contemporary wrestling. Whether you’re a fan or a practitioner of the sport, understanding its origins adds depth to your appreciation for this ancient art form.