The Unspoken Secret in Pro Wrestling: What You Don’t Know About Tech Falls Did you know that a significant portion of pro wrestling matches never reach the ultimate conclusion – a decisive winner or loser? According to WWE’s own statistics, nearly 25% of all matches on their flagship show end without a clear victor. This phenomenon is known as a “tech fall,” and it’s more common than you think.
So, what exactly is a tech fall in wrestling? And why do these outcomes happen so frequently? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of pro wrestling and explore the rules surrounding tech falls, as well as provide 3 essential tips that every fan needs to know.
Understanding The Concept Of A Tech Fall
A tech fall in wrestling refers to a type of pin that can be achieved by using a specific move or series of moves that result in the opponent’s shoulders touching the mat. This type of fall is considered more impressive and valuable than a traditional pin, which is awarded when an opponent’s shoulder or some part of their body other than the feet touches the mat.
In wrestling, a tech fall can be achieved through various means, including using specific moves that target the legs, back, or shoulders of the opponent. For example, a move such as the Heel Hook or Crucifix Hold can be used to stretch and twist an opponent’s body in such a way that their shoulders touch the mat, resulting in a tech fall.
One notable example of a tech fall in wrestling is when a wrestler uses a combination of moves to take down their opponent and then uses a specific hold to stretch their body out in such a way that their shoulder touches the mat. For instance, if a wrestler uses a Double Leg Takedown followed by a Bridge and Pin , they may be able to score a tech fall.
Key Moves That Constitute A Tech Fall
Some key moves that can result in a tech fall include:
- Heel Hook : This move involves grabbing the opponent’s leg and twisting it in such a way that their shoulder touches the mat.
- Crucifix Hold : This hold involves holding an opponent’s body across your own, with your arm under theirs. If their shoulder or some part of their body other than their feet touches the mat, you can score a tech fall.
- Bridge and Pin : This move involves taking down an opponent and then bridging their body outwards in such a way that their shoulder touches the mat.
These are just a few examples of moves that can result in a tech fall. The specific moves used to achieve a tech fall will depend on the style of wrestling being competed in, as well as the skill level and experience of the wrestlers involved.
Types Of Tech Falls And How They’re Scored
Tech falls are a crucial aspect of professional wrestling, particularly in the world of independent promotions and smaller companies where creativity and athleticism often take center stage. The scoring system for tech falls varies across different promotions, but we’ll delve into some common types and their impact on match outcomes.
1. Near Falls (Nears)
A near fall is a move that comes very close to ending the match with a pin, but the wrestler manages to escape just in time. In most promotions, including WWE, a near fall is worth half a point or no points at all, depending on the promotion’s rules.
Example: A wrestler executes a perfectly timed suplex and has their opponent on the verge of defeat for three seconds before they kick out. In this case, it counts as a near fall.
2. Near Pin
Similar to near falls but specifically refers to a pin attempt that would have won the match if executed correctly, often due to an error by the pinning wrestler or interference from another competitor.
Example: A wrestler attempts a double knee drop but lands on one knee instead of both knees, leading to their opponent kicking out. This is considered a near pin and counts less than a proper pinfall in many promotions.
3. Springboard Style Tech Fall
This type of tech fall involves the use of springboards or high-flying moves that result in an impactful move, but not necessarily ending the match with a pin due to their opponent’s quick recovery.
Example: A wrestler sets up for a springboard kick but misses, and their opponent quickly recovers to send them crashing back into the ring. This could be considered a springboard style tech fall, worth less points than a successful pinfall.
4. Tech Fall Variations
This category includes any variation of a move that is not typical or expected, often resulting in an unexpected impact. These moves might include variations on near falls or pins, such as a near fall from a variation of a submission hold.
Example: A wrestler executes a modified version of a submission hold and their opponent manages to escape after being on the verge of defeat for two seconds before they kick out. This counts less than a traditional near fall in terms of scoring.
In conclusion, tech falls are an essential aspect of professional wrestling that require precision and athleticism to execute effectively. Different types of tech falls have varying impacts on match outcomes, with some carrying more weight than others in the eyes of promotion rules.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Attempting A Tech Fall
Failure to Control Position
Attempting a tech fall requires you to control your opponent’s position, making it difficult for them to escape or counterattack. One common mistake wrestlers make is failing to maintain top control, allowing their opponents to regain position and potentially score points themselves. This can be especially true when attempting to finish a takedown, as the opponent may try to roll through into a dominant position.
To avoid this mistake, focus on establishing a solid base with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your back straight, and engaging your core muscles to maintain control over your body positioning. Practice maintaining top control in various scenarios, such as when facing an opponent who tries to push you away or when attempting to finish a takedown.
Insufficient Pressure
Applying sufficient pressure is crucial when attempting a tech fall, as it forces the opponent to defend against multiple attacks simultaneously. However, many wrestlers fail to apply enough pressure, making it easy for their opponents to escape and counterattack. This can be due to a lack of strength, endurance, or technique.
To avoid this mistake, focus on developing your overall strength and conditioning by engaging in exercises like weightlifting, cardio training, and plyometric activities. Additionally, practice applying pressure with various techniques, such as using your body positioning to create space for attacks and incorporating takedowns that allow you to quickly transition into a dominant position.
Poor Timing
Timing is everything when attempting a tech fall. A well-timed attack can catch the opponent off guard and make it difficult for them to respond effectively. However, poor timing can lead to missed opportunities and increased risk of counterattacks. This can be due to a lack of experience, a failure to read the opponent’s movements, or inadequate practice.
To avoid this mistake, focus on developing your instincts by practicing various scenarios with different opponents. Study the movements and tactics of experienced wrestlers, and analyze their techniques to identify areas where you can improve. Practice timing your attacks with precision, taking into account factors like speed, distance, and body positioning.
The Ultimate Guide to a Tech Fall in Wrestling
A tech fall in wrestling refers to a victory by fall where one wrestler gains 15 seconds of superiority over their opponent, without allowing them to score any points. This can happen in various ways, including takedowns, escapes, and reversals.
What Constitutes a Tech Fall?
To understand the concept of a tech fall, it’s essential to know what factors contribute to this type of victory. Here are some key points to consider:
- 15 seconds of superiority : The most critical aspect of a tech fall is the 15-second margin where one wrestler dominates their opponent without being scored upon.
- No points for the opponent : For an opponent to be considered defeated by tech fall, they must not score any points during that 15-second period.
- Various ways to achieve : Tech falls can occur through takedowns, escapes, and reversals. The key is to maintain control and dominance over your opponent.
Importance of a Tech Fall in Wrestling
A tech fall is a significant victory in wrestling, as it indicates a wrestler’s ability to dominate their opponent without being scored upon. This type of victory can be crucial in determining the outcome of a match, especially in high-level competitions.
- Confidence booster : A tech fall can be a huge confidence booster for wrestlers, as it demonstrates their skill and dominance over their opponents.
- Strategic advantage : Wrestlers who are able to achieve tech falls often have a strategic advantage over their opponents, as they can control the pace of the match and dictate the terms of engagement.
- Preparation and training : Achieving tech falls requires significant preparation and training. Wrestlers must be well-versed in various techniques and strategies to dominate their opponents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tech fall is a significant victory in wrestling that requires skill, strategy, and dominance over an opponent. By understanding the factors that contribute to this type of victory, wrestlers can improve their chances of success in high-level competitions. Whether you’re a seasoned wrestler or just starting out, the key to achieving tech falls lies in preparation, training, and a willingness to learn and adapt.
A tech fall is not just a way to win matches; it’s also a testament to a wrestler’s skill, strategy, and mental toughness. By mastering the art of wrestling and focusing on dominance, wrestlers can achieve greatness and become legends in their sport.
The world of wrestling is full of surprises, and only time will tell who will emerge victorious in the next big competition. Will you be one of them? The answer lies within your dedication to training and your passion for the sport.