From the sharpshooter famously used by former WWE Champion Bret Hart to Ric Flair's figure-four leg lock, submission holds are integral to professional wrestling's illusion and artistry. However, fans often wrongly assume these holds are more or less dangerous and effective than they are. In the fictional world of wrestling, perception is reality. Theatrics sell the power of submissions, even if the truth shatters those perceptions.
Below are the ten biggest myths audiences believe about wrestling submission holds. You may be surprised to learn what is fantasy versus reality regarding these classic staples of pro wrestling submissions.
10 The Figure-Four Leg Lock Hurts More Than Other Leg Submission Holds
While the figure-four looks brutal with the leg twist it causes, it doesn't hurt any more than a standard leg lock. Good selling skills by the opponent make the hold look excruciating. The figure-four definitely does not feel great, but no actual torque or damage applies to the knee. It is all about the opponent's anguished reactions and facial discomfort that contribute to the myth of this submission. Oh, and also, flipping over to the belly does not reverse the pressure of this hold.
9 The Sharpshooter Is An Ineffective Submission Hold
With big stars like Bret Hart and The Rock using it as a signature move, fans wrongly assume the sharpshooter doesn't look painful or get actual results as a submission. But the reality is that it contorts the back and stretches the legs agonizingly when applied correctly. When performed credibly, the sharpshooter puts pressure on the back and hyperextends the legs, and an average person would most likely tap out from the pain if the applier put maximum force into the hold.
8 The Camel Clutch Is Easy To Apply
The camel clutch is one of the nastiest moves in all of pro wrestling, Unlike more technical submissions, the clutch is easy for the audience to understand. The pain can be excruciating. However, a person would virtually have to let a grappler put them in the hold. Even if someone overpowered their opponent, they would need so many things to go right to apply this hold properly.
7 The Sleeper Hold Cuts Off Oxygen To The Brain
While mimicking a rear naked choke, the sleeper hold applies gentle pressure to the neck and head. It does not prevent breathing. In wrestling, the opponent fakes being strangled unconscious. The pressure applied is vastly lighter than a real chokehold. Furthermore, there is no need for someone to wrap their arm around the forehead of their opponent. A rear naked is among the most frequent submission holds used in MMA, where viewers can see the correct application of the hold.
6 Breaking A Submission Hold Is Easy If You're Strong Enough
In wrestling psychology, power and strength often overcome skill and technique. But in reality, adequately applied submissions cannot simply be powered out of through sheer force. Proper form still matters as muscle alone cannot overcome leverage in real-life submission scenarios without risking injury.
5 Tapping Out Is Shameful And Shows Weakness
Tapping out is part of the performance - it does not indicate anything about an opponent's skill or fortitude. Rather, it builds drama and suspense in matches. The tease of a tap creates excitement and has led to many great moments in the squared circle. However, in real life, it usually only takes a few seconds to produce a tap from a properly applied submission hold, and some of the planet's toughest men and women have submitted to a tight hold.
4 Arm Submission Holds Are More Painful Than Leg Holds
In pro wrestling, arm and leg holds are equally harmless when executed responsibly. Good acting sells the holds, not actual pain. Both arm and leg-based submissions rely entirely on selling, not causing legitimate agony or joint manipulation in wrestling. Plus, many pro fighters cite that heel hooks and leg locks are the more painful and dangerous submission holds.
3 The Mandible Claw Targets Pressure Points In The Jaw
While Mankind bit his fingers to draw blood and make the Mandible Claw extra gnarly, the hold doesn't use any pressure points. It's all for show. Despite appearances, the Mandible Claw utilizes no nerve centers or vulnerable spots, just dramatic facials. Now, that being said, it would not feel good to have someone cranking on your face full force. But the move would be easily reversible in an actual combat situation.
2 Wrestling Holds Are All Fake And Don't Hurt
While not intended to injure or submit fully, wrestling submissions still stretch muscles uncomfortably. Some degree of actual discomfort exists, especially for extended holds. Submissions require physical flexibility and can strain the body over time, even if not meant to damage joints or tendons. Stu Hart was famous for applying submissions to his students in the Hart Dungeon, which left many in pain and wanting to quit the sport due to how brutal they were.
1 Wrestlers Use Real Submission Skills In Choreographed Matches
Submissions in wrestling mimic martial arts; they do not indicate any fundamental proficiency in jiu-jitsu or catch wrestling. Even wrestlers with martial arts backgrounds know how to adjust holds to dramatize the action. At the end of the day, it's about getting an emotional response from the crowd.
In wrestling, moves that look devastating require expert selling skills, not legitimate danger or martial arts prowess. Separating fact from fiction shows fans how submissions blend reality and illusion to craft an entertaining show. The next time you see a wrestler caught in a painful-looking hold, remember it's mostly smoke and mirrors - but remember to please not try these at home.
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