Rules and Scoring: Amateur vs Professional Wrestling

Amateur Wrestling

Scoring System

  • Points awarded for takedowns, escapes, reversals, and near falls
  • Typical point values:
    • Takedown: 2 points
    • Escape: 1 point
    • Reversal: 2 points
    • Near fall: 2 or 3 points depending on duration

Match Duration

  • Usually consists of three periods
  • Period length varies by age and competition level (e.g., 2-3 minutes each)

Winning Conditions

  1. Pin (fall): Holding opponent’s shoulders to the mat
  2. Technical superiority: Gaining a large point advantage
  3. Decision: Highest score at the end of the match
  4. Forfeit or disqualification

Legal Moves

  • Focused on grappling techniques
  • Strict rules against striking, joint manipulation, and dangerous throws

Professional Wrestling

Scoring System

  • No formal point system
  • Emphasis on dramatic moves and audience reaction

Match Duration

  • Varies widely, from a few minutes to over an hour
  • Often determined by storyline needs and audience engagement

Winning Conditions

  1. Pinfall: 3-count pin by the referee
  2. Submission: Forcing opponent to give up
  3. Count-out: Failure to return to the ring
  4. Disqualification: Breaking scripted rules
  5. Special stipulations: Unique conditions for specific match types

Legal Moves

  • Wide range of theatrical moves, including strikes and high-flying maneuvers
  • Moves designed for visual impact rather than competitive effectiveness