Tag: Combat

John Brzenk is considered by many as the greatest arm wrestler of all time. He is admired and respected by both fans and fellow arm wrestlers alike for his contributions to arm wrestling.

Here is a highlight of the career of the greatest arm wrestler of all time in John Brzenk. Detailing John’s 40+ year career, 26 championships, and how he helped arm wrestling become a legitimate sport.

John Brzenk’s Early Life 

John Brzenk was born in McHenry, Illinois and grew up around arm wrestling. His father, John Brzenk Sr. was also a state champion arm wrestler, who was known for his powerful forearms.

Just like his father, John Jr. would also get into bodybuilding just like his father. He wanted to be just like dad and started arm wrestling his classmates in school. Quickly becoming the best arm wrestler in his class.

When he was in eighth grade, John would suffer a broken arm from an arm wrestling match with his dad’s friend. Brzenk would credit the break, along with his good genetics for strengthening his tendons significantly.

John Brzenk’s Entry Into Professional Arm Wrestling

When John turned eighteen, he would take the leap and become a professional arm wrestler. From the moment Brzenk made his pro debut in 1982, he took over the sport of arm wrestling.

In his first year as a pro, John would win his first world title on the ABC Wide World of Sports program. Not only becoming the youngest star of the sport, but also the best arm wrestler in the world.

Little did fans of arm wrestling realize that John’s reign as champion would last nearly 3 decades. All while never suffering a loss in all of those years.

A List of All John Brzenk’s Title Wins

There has never been an arm wrestler with a more long and storied career than John Brzenk. Detailing all of his major titles would take multiple to articles. 

Instead, we’ve compiled a list of nearly all of John’s major title wins in the sport of arm wrestling. Here’s a nearly definitive list of John Brzenk’s title wins within multiple weight classes.

AAA Stand Up National

• 1984: 200 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1985: 185 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1986: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1990: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)

Arnold Classic

• 2006: 199+lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2007: 199+lbs(Right-Handed)

AWI World

• 1986: Pro Super Heavyweight
• 1987: Pro Light Heavyweight
• 1988: Pro Light Heavyweight
• 1995: Pro Light Heavyweight
• 2001: Pro Super Heavyweight

Carling O’Keefe International

• 1989: 200 lbs & 230 lbs(Both Right-Handed)

Forsa Tropical International

• 1998: 198 lbs(Right & Left-Handed)/243 lbs(Right-Handed)

GNC Pro Performance

• 2002: 198 lbs(Right-Handed)

Golden Bear

• 1990: 198 lbs(Right & Left-Handed)
• 1994: 198 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1994: Supermatch Champion
• 1994: Absolute Champion(Right-Handed)
• 1998: 198 lbs(Right-Handed)

Harley Pull

• 2000: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2001: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2002: 198 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2009: 225 LBs(Left & Right-Handed)

Main Event

• 1998: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)

Mike Gould Classic

• 2006: 220 lbs(Left & Right-Handed
• 2010: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)

Mohegan Sun Pac World

• 2005: 198 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2006: 242 lbs(Right-Handed 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2007: 198 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)

Over The Top

• 1986: Winner of Truckers Division

Reno Reunion

• 1999: 200 lbs(Right-Handed), 230 lbs(Right-Handed), 231+ lbs(Right-Handed), 200 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2000: 198 lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Right-Handed, 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 198 lbs(Left-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2001: 198 lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 198 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2002: 198 lbs(Right-Handed, 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed, 198 lbs(Left-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2003: 233+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2006: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2006: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)

ROTN

• 2007: 215 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2008: 242 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2009: 199+ lbs(Right-Handed)

Sands International Wrist Wrestling/Armwrestling

• 1988: 190 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1989: 190 lbs(Right-Handed), 215 lbs(Right-Handed)

Sherkston Beaches International

• 1987: 200 lbs & 201+ lbs(Right-Handed)

SuperStar Showdown

• 2004:  199+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2005:  198 lbs(Right-Handed)

Ultimate Armwrestling(Las Vegas)

• 2004: 242 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2005: 198 lbs(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2006: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)

Ultimate Armwrestling League

• 2011: 200 lbs(Right-Handed)

USAA National Pro-Am

• 1996: 200 lbs(Right-Handed), 201+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1997: 198 lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 198 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 1998: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 1999: 198 lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 198 lbs(Left-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2000: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed), 243+ lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2001: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed), 243+ lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2002: 198 lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 198 lbs(Left-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2003: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2004: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2005: 242 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2006: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2007: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2009: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed), 242 lbs(Left-Handed), 243+ lbs(Left-Handed)
• 2010: 242 lbs(Right-Handed), 243+ lbs(Right-Handed)

USAF Unified National

• 2005: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)

WAF World Armwrestling Championship

• 1999 Supermatch(Left-Handed)

WAL

2015: Heavyweight Championship(Right-Handed)

World Wristwrestling Championship(Petaluma)

• 1984: Lightweight(Right-Handed)
• 1988: Heavyweight, Middleweight,(Right-Handed)
• 1989: Heavyweight, Middleweight(Right-Handed)
• 1990: Heavyweight, Middleweight(Right-Handed)
• 1991: Heavyweight, Middleweight(Right-Handed)
• 1996: Heavyweight(Right-Handed), Middleweight(Left-Handed)
• 1998: Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, Middleweight(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2001: Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, Middleweight(Left & Right-Handed)

WPAA World

• 1985: Middleweight

Yukon Jack National/World

• 1990: Heavyweight(Right-Handed)
• 1991: Heavyweight(Right-Handed)
• 1992: Heavyweight(Right-Handed)
• 1993: Heavyweight(Right-Handed)
• 1995: Middleweight(Right-Handed)
• 1996: Middleweight: Right-Handed)

Zloty Tur/Nemiroff World Cup

• 2004: 220 lbs(Right-Handed)
• 2006: 220 lbs, Open Weight(Right-Handed)
• 2007: 220 lbs, Open Weight(Left & Right-Handed)
• 2008: 220 lbs, Open Weight(Right-Handed)
• 2009: 220 lbs, Open Weight(Left & Right-Handed)

Over The Top 

The film Over The Top from 1987 starring Sylvester Stallone was actually inspired by John Brzenk. In the previous year, Brzenk had won the trucker division of the 1986 Over The Top Arm Wrestling Championship.

Winning the division and the grand prize mack truck. Brzenk would also have an uncredited cameo in the film.

John Brzenk’s Technical Approach

If you ask any of the top arm wrestlers, they will credit John Brzenk for being an innovator. He helped what was perceived as a strongman competition and helped evolve it into a legitimate sport.

Of course John is strong, but what helped him become the best ever was his technical approach. He studied arm wrestling extensively and became a technical master.

Most arm wrestlers have one technique they’re good at, but John is good at all aspects. Everything from hooking, hand control, and pushing. Mixing them all together to beat the best athletes in the world.

John Brzenk’s Training

Not only is John an innovator at the technical aspect of arm wrestling, but also the training. Believe it or not, John does not do a weight lifting routine.

Every strength training exercise he does is oriented for the sport of arm wrestling. What he likes to do is use straps and hook them to a heavy pulley system.

Mimicking the moments of a match and engaging all of the muscles he uses for competition. Never wearing down his body, but always being in shape to be the best in the world.

Pulling John

John was the focus of the documentary “Pulling John” that was released in 2009. A camera crew followed Brzenk around for over four years documenting his life and career.

During the filming, John would talk about the sport he loves and ponder about when he would retire.

John Brzenk’s Personal Life

When John was winning world titles in arm wrestling, he worked as an airplane mechanic for Delta Airlines for many years. A job that John says he loved and gave his arms a rest in between tournaments.

John is also a family man, who has been married for over thirty years, has two daughters, and is a grandfather.

The Retirement and Return of John Brzenk

In 2016, John Brzenk would make his first retirement from the sport of arm wrestling at 52 years old. This retirement would last for six years as he would make a comeback.

In his fifties, Brzenk would return to the sport he dominated for decades and still one of the best. He would shut out top ranked athlete Khadzimurat Zoloev and regain the world’s top ranking once again.

Brzenk would continue where he left off in 2022, where he competed at the 4th East vs West. Beating Kydyrgali Ongarbaev in a right-handed super match.

Then later that year, John would also beat Oleg Petrenko 3-0. Showing that Brzenk is still very much one of the best arm wrestlers in the world today at nearly 60.

The Legacy of John Brzenk

John Brzenk is considered the greatest arm wrestler of all time and an innovator of the sport. He’s won the most titles of any arm wrestler in history, but this wasn’t his most important work.

His work ethic and approach to arm wrestling turned it from a strong man competition and into a legitimate sport.

Unbelievably at nearly 60 years old, Brzenk is still one of the world’s best arm wrestlers. No one will be surprised if he wins more titles before calling it a career.

Devon Larratt is one of the best arm wrestlers on the planet. He’s a fan favorite that has been one of the top competitors in the sport for decades.

Here’s what you need to know about Devon Larratt. Detailing everything from his start in the sport, becoming a champion, and his training methods.

Devon Larratt’s Early Life

Devon Larratt was born in Victoria, British Columbia in 1975. From his early years, Larratt would gain an interest in arm wrestling.

One of the first people that began showing Devon the sport of arm wrestling was his grandmother. A farm worker, who claimed to be the best female arm wrestler in Alberta, Canada. 

On top of having an interest in arm wrestling, Larratt would also compete in Judo as a child.

Devon Larratt’s Start In Arm Wrestling

Devon would start getting into arm wrestling competitions as a teen. Competing at small competitions around Alberta. 

Taking on some of the strongest oil field workers in western Canada. Although, Devon would just dabble in arm wrestling and not fully commit to the sport until years later.

Larratt Wounded In Action 

When Devon was 21, he would enlist in the Canadian military. He would pass the test to become part of the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command.

Larratt would serve with the Joint Task Force 2 for the next sixteen years and reach the rank of master corporal. During his time in the service, he would be deployed to Afghanistan.

He was wounded during one of his last deployments, but made a quick recovery.

Devon Larratt’s Early Career

Despite being part of the Canadian military, Devon would continue to train and compete in arm wrestling during his off time. He credits his time in the military for helping in his success in becoming a top arm wrestler.

In his twenties, Larratt would compete all around Canada. Quickly becoming one of the top arm wrestlers in the country.

Devon Larratt’s First International Competition

After having success in regional competitions, Devon would get invited to his first international competition in 1999. He would earn a spot to compete at the world’s event that year, which was held in Japan.

Larratt would compete in the 100 kg division that was filled with some of the all-time great arm wrestlers. During the competition, Devon would earn one of the biggest wins of his career.

Beating Swedish champion Krister Jonsson to face the all-time great arm wrestler in John Brzenk. Devon would lose his first meeting with Brzenk, but would earn third in the left-handed division of his weight class.

Notable Matches Early In Larratt’s Career

For years, Devon would dominate competitions throughout Canada. Winning the Ontario Championships numerous times.

One of his most notable wins at the Ontario Championship was in 2003 where he defeated Robert Graham and Mike Gould.

A year later, Devon would take part in a super match in the state of Washington. A rematch against John Brzenk, where Larratt would be defeated once again.

Devon Larratt’s Comeback

After sustaining a shrapnel injury during his deployment in 2005, Devon would rehab and return to competition in 2006. Competing in a series of matches against Ron Bath at a Mike Classic event in Ontario, Canada.

At the time, Bath was the third ranked arm wrestler in North America behind John Brzenk and Travis Bagent. Larratt would defeat Bath 3-1 in their series of matches.

Devon has stated that these were some of his favorite matches of his arm wrestling career. Mainly because he was able to overcome the adversity of his injury and the uncertainty if he’d ever compete again.

Devon Larratt Becomes a Star 

During the late 2000s is when Devon really came into his own as a professional arm wrestler. In 2007, he competed at ArmWars and once again defeated Ron Bath in a series of matches.

But possibly the biggest of Devon’s career occurred in 2008 at ArmWars. Competing in another supermatch against John Brzenk. 

He would do what was thought impossible and beat the legend, who hadn’t lost in 25 years. Sweeping Brzenk and becoming the new #1 ranked right-handed arm wrestler.

Two years later, Larratt would become the #1 rank arm wrestler in both the left and right-handed divisions. Winning at a round robin against three of the world’s top arm wrestlers. Including Travis Bagent, Tim Bresnan, and Don Underwood.

Devon would go on to have a bit of a rivalry with Travis Bagent in 2011. Bagent would win a rematch against Larratt to win back the left-handed world title.

But Larratt would bounce back and beat Larratt to get his title back at the end of the year.

Devon Larratt’s Injury

From 2011 to 2013, Devon would go on one of the best runs of his career. He would join the MLA after ArmWars went into abeyance.

In the MLA, Larratt would win the league’s super heavyweight title by beating Tim Bresnan. Devon would also win the league’s left-handed title by defeating Andriy Pushkar.

Then in 2013, he beat Oleg Zhokh, Wilton Brock, and Eric Woelfel to retain his left-handed title. But Larratt would later be sidelined after undergoing elbow surgery on both arms. These surgeries would make Devon lose his number one pound-for-pound ranking. 

Devon Larratt in the World Armwrestling League

However, Devon would make his return later in 2014 joining the World Armwrestling League (WAL). 

In his return, Larratt beat Marcio Barboza to win the left-handed title, but also lost the right-handed title to Barboza. 

Later in 2015, Larratt would lose his left-handed title after his match with Barboza was canceled due to injury. He would also lose in the semi-finals of the right-handed tourney to his rival John Brzenk.

But Devon would bounce back by winning the Vendetta in Vegas event. He would win a super match with Russian powerhouse Denis Cyplenkov. A giant of a man, known for his incredibly large hands.

Devon Larratt’s Training and Style

What has made Devon Larratt one of the best arm wrestlers in the world is his intense focus and training. He is a top student of his sport that studies everything from techniques and his opponents.

Larratt has been very open about his training methods and has posted numerous videos on Youtube. Going over all of the exercises and technical work that he does to continue being a champion.

One exercise in particular that he describes in the video above is his forearm workout. Looping heavy weights in a cloth belt and curling them in a fashion like he’s hooking an opponent. This type of training is how he got his giant arms that he’s known for.

Devon Larratt’s Ventures Outside of Arm Wrestling

Larratt’s stardom has reached beyond just the sport of arm wrestling. He has made many guest appearances on top podcasts like the Lex Fridman podcast.

Another highly viewed appearance by Larratt was on NBA on TNT in 2018 to promote the AWL. Devon would have a friendly match with Shaquille O’Neal.

But Devon’s most recent venture outside of arm wrestling was a celebrity boxing event. He would take a boxing match on short notice against World Strongman Champion and actor Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson.

The event took place in Dubai in front of thousands of people. Björnsson won by TKO, but Larratt still enjoyed the experience and tried something out of his comfort zone.

The Legacy of Devon Larratt

Devon Larratt has done numerous things in his life from being a combat veteran to a champion arm wrestler. His arm wrestling career has spanned nearly thirty years with numerous world titles against the best in the world.

Although Larratt is in his mid-forties, he is still one of the top ranked arm wrestlers in the world. He shows no sign of slowing down and  will likely win more big matches in the years to come.

There’s many combat sports fans that think Muay Thai and kickboxing are the same thing, but they could be more different. For years, practitioners from both styles have competed against each other in the other’s style with varying results.

Here’s a full breakdown of the old Muay Thai vs Kickboxing scenario. Comparing everything about the two from their histories, style, and how they match up against one another in a fight.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: The Histories

Muay Thai has over a thousand years of history, while the sport of kickboxing is fairly new. Here are the histories of Muay Thai vs kickboxing.

The History of Muay Thai 

The art of eight limbs known as Muay Thai is the national sport and martial art of Thailand. As a sport, Muay Thai is only around a century old. But as a martial art, it dates back to over a thousand years.

No one can pinpoint exactly when Muay Thai was created, but many believe it’s over a century old (if not more). Before the creation of Muay Thai, there was another style practiced called “Muay Boran.”

Historians believe that Muay Boran was influenced and developed by similar styles practiced with the neighboring countries of Myanmar and Cambodia. At first, Muay Boran was strictly used in warfare mainly against the neighboring nations just mentioned.

Muay Thai began to be developed off of Muay Boran during the prominent years of the Ayutthaya Kingdom(1351-1767). Then during the reign of King Narusuan the Great, Muay Thai would first be practiced as a sport.

The nation’s best warrior’s would compete in friendly competition at huge festivals put on by the kingdom. These types of showcases would continue until the early twentieth century as Muay Thai would become a legitimate sport.

The sport of Muay Thai would be heavily influenced by western boxing. Thai boxing as it became known would take place in a boxing ring with fighters wearing boxing gloves.

Governing bodies would also be created, which would create weight divisions and official Muay Thai rules. Muay Thai would transform into the official sport of Thailand, which the Thai people loved and took pride in.

In the almost hundred year history of Muay Thai, there have been numerous legendary fighters that have competed. Today, the martial art and sport is more popular than ever and is practiced globally.

The History of Kickboxing

While the history of Muay Thai dates back centuries, the sport of kickboxing is less than a century old. It is a hybrid sport that began developing during the 1960s and 1970s.

Mixing the styles of Karate, boxing, Taekwondo, and also even Muay Thai. The very first official kickboxing event took place in Japan in 1966.

This event was put on by the creator of Kyokushin Karate Masutatsu Oyama. The main event of this event was the student of Oyama in Tadashi Sawamura vs Dutch kickboxer Jan Plas. 

Many combat sports historians cite this event as the beginning of the modern sport of kickboxing. After this event, there would be numerous kickboxing events held throughout the US and Europe during the 1970s and 1980s.

Various different federations would be created that included the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) and the World Kickboxing Association(WKA). Both of which are still going strong since their creation.

Many consider the boom period for the sport of kickboxing started in the 1990s with the creation of K-1 Kickboxing. The Japanese based kickboxing promotion that put on the sport’s biggest shows for over a decade.

Numerous Kickboxing legends like Ernesto Hoost, Jerome Le Banner, Andy Hug, Cro Cop, Masato, and Semmy Schilt fought within the promotion. 

Today, kickboxing is making a resurgence with promotions like Glory Kickboxing and RISE being two of the biggest promotions.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: The Similarities 

Both of these sports have a wide variety of similarities. Here are the main similarities between Muay Thai vs kickboxing.

The Techniques

Both sports practice almost the same type of techniques, which include a variety of punches and kicks. This is why it’s common to see a fighter from one of these sports make a transition to the other sport.

Proven Effective

Both styles of kickboxing have been proven effective in practice. This is why millions of people practice either Muay Thai or a hybrid form of kickboxing.

Both Sports Influenced By Boxing

Both Muay Thai and kickboxing were heavily influenced by the sport of boxing. When the two sports were being created, the founders of both sports took inspiration from boxing. 

Adding everything from a boxing ring, boxing gloves, 3 minute rounds, weight classes, and championship belts. Neither sport would probably exist if boxing hadn’t come before them.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: The Differences 

While Muay Thai and kickboxing may seem similar, there are a lot of differences. Here are the main differences between Muay Thai vs kickboxing.

Rules 

The actions of the bouts may seem similar, but the rules of Muay Thai are vastly different from those of kickboxing.

In the rules of a Thai boxing bout the following is permitted:

• Elbows
• Clinch 
• Throws
• Reinforced Strikes

Each kickboxing federation has their own rules, but they all don’t allow the following:

• No Elbows
• No Clinching
• No Throws

Also most kickboxing promotions and federations do not permit reinforced strikes to the head. This rule became widely implemented after Allistair Overeem began using a Thai plum to pull his opponent’s head into his knee.

This also changed the rules for clinching that fighters must release their clinch after striking their opponent.

Rounds 

The rounds of Muay Thai vs kickboxing are also completely different from one another. In kickboxing, non-title bouts are 3/3 minute rounds and title bouts are 5 rounds.

All Muay Thai bouts are 5/3 minute rounds. Thai boxing governing bodies in Thailand also have a 2 minute rest between rounds, where there’s only one in kickboxing.

(In ONE Championship, the rest time for their Muay Thai bouts is only 1 minute like in kickboxing.)

Kickboxing is a Hybrid Sport

Then the last difference between the two styles is that kickboxing is a hybrid style/sport. It was created from numerous styles that includes Karate, Kung Fu, Taekwondo, boxing, and even Muay Thai.

The sport and martial art of Muay Thai is not a hybrid. It’s a pure fighting style that was created within Thailand.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: Their Strengths

Both styles have some great advantages that they can use in a fight. Here are the strengths of Muay Thai vs kickboxing.

The Strengths of Muay Thai 

While Muay Thai and kickboxing may seem similar, Thai boxing has three big strengths over kickboxing.

• Elbows
• Clinch
• Leg Kicks

It can be debated that the punches and kicks in kickboxing can match Muay Thai. But the elbows and clinch within Muay Thai are game changers.

A Muay Thai fighter may be losing a fight, but once they’re able to clinch, the tide of a fight changes. They can unleash a barrage of nasty elbows or knees and even throw their opponent to the canvas.

But let’s not forget the power of the leg kicks that nobody does better than in Muay Thai. The ability to chop down an opponent is an incredible strength of the style.

The Strengths of Kickboxing

Kickboxing has many strengths of its own that match well against Muay Thai. Some of the strengths of kickboxing includes:

• Great Boxing
• More Aggressive
• More Movement

While dealing with a Muay Thai fighter would be difficult, a kickboxer generally has better boxing than a Thai fighter. Being able to keep a Thai boxer off balance with more technical punches and mix in kicks.

Kickboxers also tend to be more aggressive than Muay Thai fighters and tend to use more movement. This is mainly due to a couple reasons.

The bouts are shorter in kickboxing and they have to be more aggressive and the gambling aspect of Thai boxing. Thai fighters in Thailand are told to start slow to let the bets come in before picking up the pace.

Most kickboxers also tend to use more movement than Thai boxers. This can be an advantage for them against a Thai boxer as Muay Thai fighters generally just move forward.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: Their Weaknesses

While both styles of striking are very effective, they aren’t without flaws. Here are the flaws of Muay Thai vs kickboxing listed below.

The Weaknesses of Muay Thai 

Since western fighters have been competing against Thai boxers, two noticeable flaws have been revealed. Kickboxers generally have better hands and they sometimes have trouble when an opponent moves a lot.

Thai fighters have been improving their hands, but western fighters with a base in boxing are far ahead of them. This mixed with the movement of kickboxers can sometimes make things difficult for a Thai boxer. 

The Weaknesses of Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a good martial art, but when a kickboxer goes against a Thai boxer, the same things get exposed. Kickboxers don’t know how to defend against elbow strikes or the clinch.

Leg kicks were also a big problem for traditional kickboxers early on when they weren’t allowed in kickboxing matches. But the clinch and elbows have always been their weak points against Thai boxers.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: Who Wins?

The winner between a Thai boxer and kickboxer would really depend on the ruleset. Under Muay Thai rules, the Thai boxer would have the advantage and under kickboxing rules, the kickboxer would have an advantage.

Although we’ve seen many fighters from these disciplines face each other within each ruleset. The results have been mixed and have depended on the skills of the fighters. 

The Final Verdict

The striking styles of Muay Thai and kickboxing are both highly effective and respected. But the great thing about the two styles is that you can easily learn both.

Definitely consider learning one or both of these disciplines. Either would get you in great shape and be beneficial in learning a form of self defense.

Karate and Taekwondo are two of the most practiced martial arts in the world. At the height of their popularity, there were many debates discussing which was the superior martial art.

Let’s break down Karate vs Taekwondo and go over all of the similarities and differences between the two striking arts. Including going over the strengths and weaknesses of the two if the practitioners from each style faced each other.

Karate vs Taekwondo: The Histories 

Both of these martial arts have unique and rich histories. Here are the histories of Karate vs Taekwondo.

The History of Karate

The striking art of Karate originated in the islands of Okinawa. Within these islands many Chinese fishermen, who were Kung Fu practitioners, would settle there.

Karate would be created from techniques from Chinese Kung Fu styles and indigenous fighting techniques from the Ryukyu islands. There would be numerous masters credited with the development of Karate, but one of the main masters was Gichin Funakoshi.

Grand Master Funakoshi is considered the father of modern Karate and was responsible for bringing Karate to mainland Japan. 

Funakoshi would develop his style called Shotokan. Other masters would make their styles, which included Kyokushin, Goju-Ryu, Wado-Ryu, and Shito-Ryu.

Karate would begin to spread worldwide after WW2 due to the US military base in Okinawa. American servicemen would begin learning Karate and then take what they learned to the US.

The martial art of Karate would quickly become one of the most practiced martial arts in the world. Today, there’s an estimated 100 million people that practice a form of Karate.

The History of Taekwondo

The Korean martial art of Taekwondo like Karate is also a fairly young martial art. Although, the origins of the martial art date back to the Three Kingdoms period in Korea thousands of years prior.

Some of the older Korean martial arts that Taekwondo would take technique from include: Sukon, Taekkyon, and Gwonbeop.

Aspects of Karate would also be adopted into Taekwondo due to the occupation of Korea by Japan during the 1900s. After WW2, Japan’s occupation of Korea would end and Koreans would begin to reform their own identity. This included the creation of a national martial art.

There were four martial artists that are mainly credited with the creation of Taekwondo. They include: General Choi Hong Hi, Nam Te Hi, Han Cha Kyo, and Lee Chong Woo. General Choi is credited with coming up with the name Taekwondo.

Taekwondo would become internationally practiced within the first thirty years of its creation. In 1973, the World Taekwondo Federation would form and soon after, the first World Taekwondo Championship would be held.

Then just 15 years later in 1988, Taekwondo would debut as a demonstration sport at the Seoul Olympics. Later becoming an official Olympic sport in 2000.

During this period, Taekwondo became one of the most practiced martial arts in the world next to Karate. Today, Taekwondo is practiced in over 200 countries and on nearly every continent in the world.

Karate vs Taekwondo: The Similarities

Karate and Taekwondo share a lot of similar qualities between each other. Here are the main similarities between Karate vs Taekwondo.

Striking Martial Arts 

Both Karate and Taekwondo are traditional striking martial arts. Each style consists of a variety of different punching and kicking techniques.

The techniques vary, but many of the same striking techniques are practiced within both martial arts.

Belt Systems

Karate and Taekwondo both signify rank by using their own belt systems. The belt systems in each style are different, but both have black belts as the highest rank of the colored belts. Also in both styles, it takes around 4-6 years of consistent training to achieve a black belt.

Karate Influenced Taekwondo

When Taekwondo was being formed after WW2, Karate would have an influence on the martial art’s creation. The creators of Taekwondo would actually borrow numerous things from Karate such as uniforms, the belt system, techniques, and forms.

Taekwondo pioneers like General Choi would take these ideas from Karate to create the system for their martial art.

Both Styles Use Forms

As mentioned above, both of these martial arts use forms in their teachings. In Karate, the forms are called “katas” and in Taekwondo, they call forms “poomsaes.”

Also in both Karate and Taekwondo competitions, they each have divisions for forms that competitors compete in.

The Popularity of Karate and Taekwondo

Both Karate and Taekwondo are not only similar in techniques, but in popularity. They are two of the most practiced martial arts in the world with around 100 millions practitioners in each style.

Karate vs Taekwondo: The Differences 

While Karate and Taekwondo may seem similar to the untrained eye, they are widely different martial arts. Here are the differences between Karate vs Taekwondo.

Japan vs. Korea

Let’s list the first major differences between the two martial arts, which is their origins. Karate is a Japanese martial art, while Taekwondo is a Korean martial art.

Karate had an influence on Taekwondo’s creation, but Taekwondo is the national martial art of South Korea. In Japan, Karate is one of the national martial arts next to the grappling art of Judo.

Linear Movement vs. Long Distance Fighting

In most all of the forms of Karate, the movement within them is almost all linear and rigid. They will take swift angles, but the goal of Karate is to move forward at their opponent.

Within Taekwondo, fighters try to fight from a longer distance. Enabling practitioners to use their kicks or include jumps or spins in order to create more power.

Jumping/Spinning Attacks vs. Grounded Attacks

When you watch a talented Taekwondo fighter, you will see them throw impressive spinning or jumping kicks. In Karate, students it is rare that you see them leap to throw kicks. Jumping or skipping front kicks and roundhouses are used in Karate, but jumping spin kicks.

The Belt Systems in Karate vs Taekwondo

While both martial arts have a belt system, the two are widely different from one another. They each begin and end with a white and black belt, but the middle ranks differ.

The Karate Belt System

• White Belt
• Yellow Belt
• Orange Belt
• Green Belt
• Blue Belt
• Purple Belt
• Red Belt
• Brown Belt
• Black Belt

Read more about the Karate belt system

The Taekwondo Belt System

• White Belt
• Yellow Belt
• Orange Belt
• Green Belt
• Purple Belt
• Blue Belt
• Blue w/ Black Stripe
• Brown
• Brown w/ Black Stripe
• Red
• Red w/ Black Stripe
• Black Belt

Read more about the Taekwondo Belt Order.

Karate vs Taekwondo: Their Strengths

Each of these martial arts have their own strengths. Here are the strengths of Karate vs. Taekwondo.

The Strengths of Karate 

The striking art of Karate has two specific strengths that we’ll mention.

• Well Rounded Striking
• Quick Movements

Between the two martial arts, Karate has a more well rounded striking system than Taekwondo. Not only are kicks taught, but also powerful punches, elbows, and knee strikes.

All set up by quick and simple movements. There is no wasted movement in Karate and everything is targeted to go right at your opponent. 

The Strengths of Taekwondo 

Just like with Karate, we’ll mention two specific strengths for the striking art of Taekwondo.

• Keeping Distance
• Incredibly Powerful Kicks

If you’ve ever seen kickboxer and MMA fighter Raymond Daniels fight, he puts the strength of Taekwondo on full display.

The martial art enables a practitioner to keep the distance on their opponent to land kicks. When they’re able to control this distance, it enables them to add jump, spins, or both into their techniques.

Creating a lot of power on their kicks, which will put their opponent to sleep.

Karate vs Taekwondo:  Their Weaknesses

While the two martial arts do have their strength, they do have some glaring weaknesses. Here are the weaknesses between Karate vs. Taekwondo.

The Weaknesses of Karate 

Karate has two specific weaknesses that we’ll go over. 

• Predictable Movements
• No Mentionable Grappling Techniques

Karate is a respectable martial art, but the movements and techniques have a certain pattern. A pattern that a well-rounded opponent can easily read and take advantage of.

Take MMA legend and Karate master Lyoto Machida for example. When Machida is on, he’s hard to beat, but the opponent’s that defeated him used the same strategy.

They would read his movements, close the distance, and either take him to the ground or KO him. His grappling has improved over the years, but it has always been the weakness of his style.

The Weaknesses of Taekwondo 

Taekwondo has a few different weaknesses, but we’ll go over two specific ones like with Karate.

• Dependance on Distance
• No Mentionable Grappling Techniques

Taekwondo has strong striking techniques, but they’re all dependent on controlling the distance of a fight. The kicks are all beautiful, but they can’t use them unless there’s distance between them and their opponent.

Take the losses of MMA fighter Michael Page for example. He’s an incredibly talented striker, but when he loses, it’s because he didn’t control the distance.

The opponent’s that have beaten Page were able to either get in close out grapple him or hurt him. These flaws showcase the glaring weaknesses that Taekwondo has.

Key to Victory For Karate 

For a Karate fighter to be victorious in a Karate vs Taekwondo bout, they would have to do one specific thing. Close the distance against the Taekwondo fighter.

For Taekwondo to function, a practitioner would need to control the distance in order to get off their kicks. That is why the best game plan for a Karate fighter is to close the distance and jam the Taekwondo fighter.

This would eliminate the threat of kicks, while enabling the Karate fighter to use their superior hand strikes. So, if you ever spar against a Taekwondo fighter, remember to close the distance and stay in their face.

Keys to Victory For Taekwondo 

For a Taekwondo fighter to beat a Karate fighter, they would have to do two things. Keep their opponent at a distance and use their movement.

Karate is a rigid martial art that relies on a lot of linear movement to set up their attacks. That is why it would be imperative for a Taekwondo to keep control of the range and keep constant movement.

It would allow them to get off their kicks and stay out of danger of the Karate fighter’s attacks.

The Final Verdict 

In a fight between Karate vs Taekwondo, the winner would depend on who has the better skill and gameplan. Either one of these martial arts or both along with a form of grappling would improve your self defense skills. 

The grappling art of Judo has one quite a diverse library of techniques. One of the most asked questions by those learning about the martial art is how many Judo throws are there?

We’ve put together a list of all of the Judo throws for you and detail the 12 most versatile. See all of the Judo throws listed above and detailed breakdowns for the 12 most versatile for Gi and No-Gi.

How Many Judo Throws Are There?

As of now, there are 68 Judo throws listed in the Judo syllabus. In Grandmaster Jigoro Kano’s original syllabus, there were 40 Nage-Waze or throwing techniques. After the original syllabus was printed, 28 more Judo throws were added to the syllabus, which are listed below.

• O-goshi
• Seoi-nage
• Ippon Seoi-nage
• O-Soto Gari
• Seoi-Otoshi
• Sukui-nage
• Obi-otoshi
• Tai-otoshi
• Kata-guruma
• Uki-otoshi
• Sumi-otoshi
• Sukui-otoshi
• Yama-arashi
• Morote-gari
• Kuchiki-taoshi
• Uchi-mata
• Uchi-mata-sukashi
• Ko-ushi-gaeshi
• Uki-goshi
• Kibisu-gaeshi
• Obi-tori-gaeshi
• Uki-goshi
• Koshi-guruma
• Tsurikomi-goshi
• Sode-tsurikomo-goshi
• Harai-goshi
• Tsuri-goshi
• Hane-goshi
• Utsuri-goshi
• Ushiro-goshi
• De-ashi-harai
• Hiza-guruma
• Sasae-tsurikomi-ashi
• O-uchi-gari
• Ko-soto-gari
• Uchi-mata
• Okuri-ashi-harai
• Ko-soto-gake
• Ashi-guruma
• O-guruma
• O-soto-guruma
• Tsubame-gaeshi
• O-soto-gaeshi
• O-uchi-gaeshi
• Ko-soto-gari
• Hane-goshi-gaeshi
• Harai-goshi-gaeshi
• Uchi-mata-gaeshi
• Ma-sutemi-waza
• Tomoe-nage
• Hikikomi-gaeshi
• Ura-nage
• Yoko-otoshi
• Tani-otoshi
• Hane-makikomi
• Soto-makikomi
• Uchi-makikomi
• Uki-waza
• Yoko-wakare
• Yoko-guruma
• Yoko-gake
• Daki-wakare
• O-soto-makikomi
• Uchi-mata-makikomi
• Harai-makikomi
• Ko-uchi-makikomi
• Kani-basae
• Kawazu-gake

The 12 Most Versatile Judo Throws

All of these Judo throws are incredible techniques, but around 10-12 are the most commonly used. Here are our picks for the 12 most versatile Judo throws.

Uchi-Mata 

Uchi-mata is one of the most popular Judo throws among grapplers. It’s a dynamic throw that can be set up in a variety of different ways.

For the basic throw, take a sleeve and lapel grip. Then take a step forward and a back step behind it.

Now that you’re in position, kick up at your opponent’s inner leg above their knee to take them over.

In the No-Gi version of uchi-mata, you will take wrist control and an underhook instead of Gi grips. Break your opponent’s balance/posture as you get under their hips, and kick their inner leg out.

O-Goshi

O-goshi is one of the original Judo throws that Grandmaster Kano developed. For this throw, you’re going to need to set it up by pushing your opponent.

Take your basic sleeve and lapel grips and step forward as you push your opponent back. Reactively they will step back and you’ll go into your throw.

Take a deep underhook around your opponent’s back as you take a forward step, followed by a backstep. As your opponent comes forward, take a slight bow, and roll them over your hip to complete the throw.

The No-Gi version is exactly the same with the only difference being wrist control instead of a sleeve grip.

Ippon-Seoi-Nage 

Ippon-Seoi-Nage is one of the trademark Judo throws within the martial art that is extremely powerful.  Start with your basic sleeve and collar grip and pull your opponent forward.

As your opponent comes forward, take your front and back steps as you hook their arm. Make sure to hook your opponent’s arm at the crook on your arm and not at your shoulder. They’ll easily defend it and possibly choke or counter throw you.

Once you’re in position, take a slight bow as you pull your opponent’s arm down to take them over.(The steps for the No-Gi version of ippon-seoi-nage are exactly the same, but with wrist control instead of a sleeve grip.)

There is also the drop ippon-seoi-nage, where you do the same movements, but drop to your knees under your opponent.

O-Soto-Gari 

O-soto-gari is one of the easiest and powerful Judo throws to pull off. Take your sleeve and lapel grip to pull your opponent’s weight to the leg you’re targeting.

Once their weight is on that leg, kick your inside leg up, and hook it behind your opponent’s knee. In one swift motion, you’re going to kick out your opponent’s leg as you punch forward with your lapel grip.

Throwing your opponent to the ground with force. For the No-Gi version, take a collar tie and wrist control.

Kata-Guruma

The kata-guruma or fireman’s carry is one of the most versatile Judo throws. There’s numerous setups and also rather popular in freestyle wrestling and Sambo.

There’s numerous setups, but they all start about the same. For the basic version, all you need is a grip above your opponent’s tricep.

Use that grip to pull your opponent forward as you slide under their hips, and drop to your knees. As you’re dropping to your knees, keep pulling down on your grip to load your opponent onto your shoulders.

From here, you have various finishes. Everything from rolling your opponent over your shoulders, dropping them in front of you, or a sit-through finish.

Ashi-Guruma 

The ashi-guruma is one of the most beautiful Judo throws with a tricky setup. As you’re pushing your opponent back with your grips set, you take a baiting cross step.

Your lead foot shifts to the outside and you cross step with your back foot. When your back foot touches the mat, you’re going to fake like your front foot is following behind.

But instead of following, you lift the knee up and kick your leg back across your body. Hooking your leg above your opponent’s far knee as you’re bringing them forward. Continue your kicking motion to take them over with a beautiful throw.

Ouchi-Gari 

The Ouchi-gari is one of the easiest Judo throws that meshes well with o-soto-gari. This throw/sweep starts with getting your opponent to lean back by pulling them forward.

As your opponent’s weight goes back onto their heels, you’ll go into your steps. Start with a cross step with your lead foot and your backfoot follows behind it.

Then for the last step, bring your lead foot back across, and hook behind your opponent’s leg. Leaning your weight forward to force your opponent to their back.

If you practice MMA, this is a great technique to learn when you’re clinching against the cage.

Tani-Otoshi 

Tani-otoshi is another great throw that starts as a misdirection. Looking like you’re going for o-soto-gari, but instead going into tani-otoshi.

Take a cross-step with your lead foot like you’re going for o-soto-gari. But right after your cross-step, take your back leg and slide it across the mat behind your opponent’s legs.

Use your grips to pull your opponent and throw them backwards over your leg. This is another great throw to use if you practice MMA or freestyle wrestling.

Harai-Goshi 

Harai-goshi is another one of the more dynamic Judo throws within the martial art. It meshes well with uchi-mata since it has the same footwork, but you target the outside leg.

Once your grips are set, take a lead step with your front foot, and a back step with your back foot. Then with your lead foot, hook your opponent’s outside leg right above their knee.

Kick their leg out as you pull them over to complete the throw. You can easily set this throw up by faking an uchi-mata or vice-versa.

Morote-Gari 

Morote-gari is the Judo version of the double leg takedown. Making it one of the strongest Judo throws within the martial art.

If you’ve done any wrestling training, the mechanics are about the same as a standard double leg takedown. Pull your opponent up and forward, as you change levels, and grab behind their knees.

Once you’ve hooked behind your opponent’s knees, pull their legs out as you drive forward. If you’ve already been practicing BJJ or MMA, morote-gari should be rather easy to pick up.

Koshi-Guruma 

Koshi-Guruma is one of the must learn Judo throws. It has similar mechanics as o-goshi, but you’re hooking your opponent’s head and not their body.

Use your Gi grips to pull your opponent forward and do the same steps as o-goshi. Lead step forward, followed by a back step.

In the same motion, hook your arm around your opponent’s head. Pulling their head down as they roll over your hips and go over for the takedown.

In freestyle wrestling, they also teach versions of this throw, where you roll to the ground with your opponent.

Ushiro-Goshi

The last of the 12 most versatile Judo throws on our list is the ushiro-goshi. A phenomenal counter throw that’s a must known for any type of grappling you may practice.

This set up for this throw comes off your opponent attempting a throw of their own. Specifically a type of sacrifice throw, where they turn their back to you.

Your first step is to brace yourself and keep your hips low to avoid your opponent’s throw attempt. Once you’ve defended the throw, quickly take a tight bodylock around your opponent.

Use your bodylock to lift your opponent up and drop them to the mat. If you want to advance your counter skills, you definitely need to practice ushiro-goshi.

The sport of arm wrestling has had a surge in popularity in recent years. There are more fans getting into the sport and wanting to learn about its history.

Here is what you need to know about the history of arm wrestling. Going over the history of the sport, here competitors train for their sport, and the best athlete’s in the sport’s history.

The History of Arm Wrestling

Just about every culture in the world participates in the game of wrestling. A test of strength between the strongest in a group. Everyone at one point in their lives has played this game with their friends.

It wasn’t until the mid-twentieth century when arm wrestling started becoming an organized sport. The very first officially recognized world championship took place in 1962.

After that event, the sport began spreading globally. Including Eastern Europe and Russia, where many great athletes were produced along with the US.

The First Boom in Popularity

Arm Wrestling’s first big boom took place during the 1980s. During this time, a film was released in 1987 called “Over The Top” starring Sylvester Stallone.

This movie is about a truck driver and championship arm wrestler making his way to the world championship. The movie featured some of the best arm wrestlers of the 1980s.

Most notable is the main villain played by multi-time arm wrestling world champion Rick Zumwalt.

The Rules of Arm Wrestling

The rules of arm wrestling may vary slightly depending on the organization, but they generally follow the same guidelines. Here are the rules and oversights of the sport.

• The Table: An arm wrestling table consists of four pads and grip bars for the competitors to hold. Two pads are for the competitor’s elbows, while the other two pads are to cushion the arm of a pinned competitor.
• Starting Position: The ref overseeing the match makes the athletes lock hands in the center and set the groups. This official will then put his hand on the competitor’s hands, give them the signal to start, and let go.
• Grips: Generally, the arm wrestler’s must have their thumbs pointed upward when they connect hands. Refs will take the time to set their grips and see if everything is right.
• Elbow Placement: The elbows of the athletes must be placed directly on their pads and must not move. Any movement of the elbow will result in a foul.
• Hand Placement: Hands must be aligned with the athlete’s corresponding shoulder.
• Fouls: Fouls in arm wrestling include moving your elbow, false grips, and false starts. Generally warnings are given at first, then penalties, and finally disqualification.
• The Strap: Generally if one of the athletes keeps slipping out of the grip, the ref will bring in the strap. Using it to wrap the athlete’s hands together, so there are no more grip slips.
• Wins: A match is won whenever any part of a competitor’s arm touches the pad.
• Match Length: The match will go however long it takes for a competitor to pin their opponent. Matches generally last less than a minute.

The Techniques of Arm Wrestling

Arm wrestling may seem like it’s all just brute force, but there is some skill to it. Some of the techniques include: hooking, top rolling, and pressing.

Hooking

Hooking is where an athlete rotates their opponent’s wrist. This rotational movement puts pressure on the tendons of the wrist to gain leverage.

Top Rolling

Instead of attacking an opponent straight up, top rolling is targeting their fingers and wrist. An athlete rolls their hand over top of their opponent’s to put pressure on their fingers and wrist. Forcing their wrists to give and roll back.

Pressing

Pressing is the classic brute force method to win an arm wrestling match. If an athlete knows they’re stronger than their opponent, they will blitz them with all their strength.

Training For Arm Wrestling

While arm wrestling may seem just like a sport for the big and strong, the sport has evolved. Arm wrestlers train like high level athletes to be at peak physical strength for their competition. Here is how some arm wrestlers train.

Arm Strengthening

Of course, an arm wrestler’s main focus will be on strengthening their arm. Focusing on building up every muscle and tendon in the arm from their bicep, tricep, forearm, wrists, and fingers.

They will do everything from lift weights, cables, or resistance bands. Grip strength training will also be one of the main focuses as arm wrestlers can’t afford to have weak grips.

Core and Upper Body Strengthening

Many arm wrestlers will do compound movements targeting their upper body.  But on top of their upper body, they will also do exercises to strengthen their core. 

The reason for this is because in a match their core activates and must be tight throughout the match. Any weakness in the chain and especially the core will lead to a loss and even an injury. 

Technical Training

Arm wrestling isn’t just brute force. There is a technical aspect to the sport, which many athletes mainly focus on. 

Athletes will either construct their own device to mimic an arm wrestling match. Making a grip connected to weights to work on their movements and ensure their technique is solid.

The Best Arm Wrestlers in the Sport’s History 

John Brzenk 

John Brzenk is considered by many as the greatest arm wrestler of all time. Since the 1980s, Brzenk has been at the top of the sport.

In forty year career, Brzenk has won 24 world titles and has competed in numerous weight classes. He is a master at various techniques and being a dedicated athlete.

At nearly 60 years of age, John Brzenk is still one of the best arm wrestlers in the world. Always in the hunt to win another world championship.

Devon Larratt 

Devon Larratt is considered the best arm wrestler on the planet today. He has become the face of the sport.

Larratt’s entry into the sport started in the 1990s. Known for his incredible hand and grip strength, but also his technique. Devon is always thinking about strategy and how to become a better athlete and is one of the sport’s hardest workers.

He is a charismatic and friendly person, which is why he is one the favorites in the sport.

Oleg Zokh 

We talked before about the Ukrainian mutant Oleg Zokh. Oleg is a multi-time world champion that has had an incredible journey to becoming one of the world’s best.

At first, doctor’s told him he would never gain muscle in his arm due to a condition. Zokh would develop his supposed bad arm into a freakish muscular arm to win numerous major titles.

Then he would come back after a near fatal car wreck to once again become a champion.

Denis Cyplenkov

Denis Cyplenkov is a mammoth of a man that has been one of the top arm wrestler’s for decades. The 300 lbs Ukrainian is one of the most intimidating figures in the history of the sport.

He was a straight offensive arm wrestler that relied on his immense power. Often utilizing the hooking technique along with his explosive power. Then on top of being an accomplished arm wrestler, Denis is also an accomplished strong man athlete.

Travis Bagent 

Travis Bagent is one of the best American arm wrestlers in the history of the sport. Since debuting in the 1990s, Bagent has been known for his agility and power.

He is also one of the most colorful athletes in the sports and known for talking to his opponent’s throughout a match. His larger than life personality and talent has made him a fan favorite.

How to Get Into Arm Wrestling

As the sport of arm wrestling continues to grow, there’s more people than ever that want to become arm wrestlers. Here is how you can get into the sport.

Work Up the Ranks 

To become an arm wrestler, you simply have to work your way up the ranks. Start by entering small tournaments and get acquainted with local organizers.

In just about every part of the world, there are bars that hold their own tournaments. Enter as many of these small tournaments as you can and win them. 

Once you start winning at the lower levels, you’ll start to gain attention from larger organizers. Just keep winning and working your way up until you get into the big leagues.

Train

You can just get by with just being big and strong to be an arm wrestler. To have a chance at excelling at the sports you must train like a high level athlete.

All of the best arm wrestlers have a strict training regimen. Follow the suggestions in the previous section and do your research to see how the top athletes train.

What’s the Future of Arm Wrestling?

The sport of arm wrestling is as big as it’s ever been. With more eyes on the sport, it will continue to grow and the events will get bigger. Expect to see the sport continue to grow in the future.