Wrestling Moves: How to Tie Up

Tie-ups are grips that control the opponent while standing. The most common are the collar tie, underhook, overhook, two-on-one (Russian tie) and inside control. Good wrestlers use ties to move opponents, create reactions and set up attacks rather than simply holding on.

Common tie-ups

TieUsed for
Collar tieSnaps, duck unders, head control
UnderhookControlling the body and setting up throws
Overhook (whizzer)Defending shots and throws
Two-on-oneArm control and leg attacks
Inside controlHand-fighting and shot setups
Wrist controlLimiting the opponent’s attacks

Tips

  • Tie up to attack, not to stall.
  • Move your feet to create angles.
  • Break ties you do not like quickly.
  • Chain ties together.
  • Practise pummeling to win inside position.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best tie-up?

It depends on your style; the collar tie and underhook are popular for their many options.

How do I break a collar tie?

Post on the elbow, circle, and pull the hand down or pummel inside.

Is holding a tie stalling?

Holding without attacking can be called stalling.

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Sam Ayed
Sam Ayed

Sam Ayed is a soccer player, coach and lifelong sports enthusiast. As the editor of Sportmentary, he writes and reviews the site's guides, checks rules content against the official rulebooks of each sport's governing body, and keeps pages updated when those rules change.

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