If you could only be an expert in one and average at the rest, it’s wrestling because of the ability you would have to control your opponent. If I could pick a second it would be Mauy Thai as striking is obviously important
I have a black belt in a mixed martial art focused on self defense in the real world, of which one of the primary pillars is “never be on the ground”.
Wrestling is excellent for subduing a single opponent, but is not suited for dealing with multiple attackers. You can be the world’s greatest wrestler and perfectly lock your opponent out, but it doesn’t help you when his buddy comes and kicks you in the back of your head.
We assume that in any self defense encounter you will need to defend yourself against more than one person.
As a former wrestler who also did some kung fu, I mostly agree. The only styles I’d generally have more trouble with (against someone of comparable skill) are ones where they focus on grappling ,throws, and floor moves. Especially jujitsu, but also judo and aikido.
If you could only be an expert in one and average at the rest, it’s wrestling because of the ability you would have to control your opponent. If I could pick a second it would be Mauy Thai as striking is obviously important
I have a black belt in a mixed martial art focused on self defense in the real world, of which one of the primary pillars is “never be on the ground”.
Wrestling is excellent for subduing a single opponent, but is not suited for dealing with multiple attackers. You can be the world’s greatest wrestler and perfectly lock your opponent out, but it doesn’t help you when his buddy comes and kicks you in the back of your head.
We assume that in any self defense encounter you will need to defend yourself against more than one person.
As a former wrestler who also did some kung fu, I mostly agree. The only styles I’d generally have more trouble with (against someone of comparable skill) are ones where they focus on grappling ,throws, and floor moves. Especially jujitsu, but also judo and aikido.
You would destroy a high level aikido black belt. Wrestling (and BJJ/judo) is way more effective. Speaking as a low level aikido black belt.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl8VVhF_fDY