Long before the bright lights of the UFC or the spectacle of modern professional wrestling, there was a gritty, painful, and brutally effective grappling art practiced in the coal-mining towns of Northern England. It was called Catch-As-Catch-Can Wrestling, also known as “Catch.” This was actual no-holds-barred fighting, a “violent art” where the goal was simple: make your opponent submit by any means necessary.
This guide will explore the history, philosophy, and techniques of Catch Wrestling, the foundational art that gave birth to modern professional wrestling, influenced Olympic freestyle wrestling, and laid the groundwork for mixed martial arts.
Key Takeaways
- Submission Focused: The primary goal in Catch Wrestling is to “pin or submit.” It is famous for its aggressive and painful joint locks and submissions.
- No “Illegal” Holds: True to its name, “catch as catch can,” the style originally had very few restrictions, emphasizing the control and finishing of an opponent with whatever technique worked.
- British Roots, Global Influence: Originating in Lancashire, England, Catch Wrestling was spread globally by legendary figures who influenced the development of grappling in Japan, the United States, and beyond.
- Foundation of MMA & Pro Wrestling: Catch Wrestling is the direct ancestor of both modern American professional wrestling and a key component in the DNA of Mixed Martial Arts.
The Philosophy: “Pin or Submit”
Unlike the point-based systems of many modern grappling sports, the ethos of Catch Wrestling is definitive. You win by either pinning your opponent’s shoulders to the mat or forcing them to give up via a submission hold.
This created a relentlessly aggressive style. Practitioners became experts in “rides” (controlling an opponent from the top position) and “hooks” (a term for submissions). They were masters of painful joint manipulation, neck cranks, and body-contorting holds designed to elicit a quick submission.
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Historical Roots: From Carnivals to Championships
Catch Wrestling’s origins are traced back to the rough-and-tumble carnival and fairground circuits of 19th-century Britain. Traveling wrestlers would take on all comers, challenging local toughs for prize money. This environment demanded techniques that were effective and decisive.
From these humble beginnings, the art was formalized and spread by legendary coaches and competitors. Perhaps the most famous training hall was “The Snake Pit” in Wigan, Lancashire, run by the iconic Billy Riley. This gym produced a lineage of some of the toughest and most skilled grapplers the world has ever seen.
The Key Techniques: A Vicious Arsenal
Catch wrestlers are known for their punishing and effective arsenal of holds. While they share some techniques with other grappling arts, their application is often more aggressive.
Dominant Top Control: Catch is famous for its top-heavy game, using cross-body rides, leg rides, and immense pressure to break an opponent’s will before applying a submission.
The Double Wrist Lock: Known today in BJJ and MMA as the Kimura, this powerful shoulder lock was a staple of Catch Wrestling long before it was adopted in other disciplines.
The Toe Hold: A brutal ankle lock that attacks the foot and ankle joint.
Neck Cranks & Can Openers: Direct attacks on the neck and spine, designed to force a submission through pain and pressure.
The Crotch-Riffle: A powerful takedown and lifting technique.
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Legendary Practitioners: The Godfathers of Grappling
The influence of Catch Wrestling is best seen through the lineage of legends it produced, from historical pioneers to modern MMA and pro wrestling stars.
Zack Sabre Jr.: Widely considered one of the best technical wrestlers in the world, ZSJ embodies the essence of Catch Wrestling in modern professional wrestling. His innovative, submission-heavy style is a direct tribute to the “violent art.”
Karl Gotch & Billy Robinson: These two are arguably the most important coaches in the history of the art. Gotch, known as the “God of Wrestling” in Japan, and the feared Robinson were both instrumental in training a generation of Japanese athletes who would go on to found the first MMA and modern pro wrestling organizations.
Ad Santel: A legendary turn-of-the-century practitioner whose victories over top Judo players in challenge matches proved the formidable effectiveness of Catch Wrestling against other grappling arts.
Kazushi Sakuraba: Dubbed “The Gracie Hunter,” Sakuraba used his creative Catch Wrestling base in the Pride FC ring to famously defeat multiple members of the legendary Gracie family, cementing the art’s reputation on the world stage.
The Shamrock Brothers (Ken & Frank): As pioneers in the early days of the UFC, both Ken and Frank Shamrock incorporated Catch Wrestling principles into their arsenals, helping to define the look and feel of early no-holds-barred fighting in America.
Josh Barnett: A modern MMA champion and former UFC title holder who proudly flies the flag of Catch Wrestling, utilizing its punishing top control and submissions to this day.
Become A Better Grappler with Catch Wrestling
Mastering Catch Wrestling techniques can significantly enhance an individual’s grappling performance, providing a strategic advantage in competitive settings and self-defense scenarios. Originating from the Lancashire style, this discipline’s aggressive grappling techniques and comprehensive approach to standing and ground skills cater to a broad spectrum of combat sports.
The legacy of Billy Riley’s Snake Pit underscores the profound impact of Catch Wrestling on the development of Olympic freestyle wrestling and Judo, highlighting its foundational role in the grappling world. Moreover, the Mixed Martial Arts boom has reinvigorated interest in this versatile discipline, showcasing its effectiveness in modern combat.
Emphasizing quick transitions, strategic positioning, and a blend of American and English wrestling techniques, Catch Wrestling prepares individuals to excel across various grappling situations.
Where to Learn Catch Wrestling?
For those interested in pursuing catch wrestling, Snake Pit U.S.A. Catch Wrestling Association offers comprehensive training across various locations. This organization stands at the forefront of preserving and teaching the ancient art of catch wrestling, providing enthusiasts and athletes with a well-structured path to mastery.
Their training programs are designed under the guidance of catch wrestling legends, ensuring that students learn the techniques, philosophy, and history behind this grappling style. Participants have the unique opportunity to test their skills at catch wrestling events organized by Snake Pit U.S.A., allowing them to experience the competitive aspect of the sport.
Moreover, members can access many resources, including historical photos and instructional materials, to deepen their understanding and appreciation of catch wrestling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Catch as Catch Can Mean?
It means to “catch hold anywhere you can.” This reflects the original philosophy of having very few, if any, illegal holds.
Is Catch Wrestling the same as professional wrestling?
No. Catch is the competitive combat sport from which the “worked,” or choreographed, style of modern professional wrestling evolved.
What is the main difference between Catch Wrestling and BJJ?
While there is considerable overlap, the general philosophy differs. Catch is traditionally more aggressive, with a greater emphasis on pins, neck cranks, and a punishing top game. BJJ places a greater focus on the guard position and a more systematic, positional approach.
Where can I learn Catch Wrestling?
Dedicated Catch Wrestling schools are rarer than BJJ or Judo clubs, but they are growing in popularity. Organizations like Snake Pit U.S.A. have affiliate schools and hold seminars, offering authentic instruction in the art.
