The Impact of Wrestling on MMA: Why Top Fighters Often Have a Wrestling Background

In the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), various combat styles collide — but one discipline consistently stands out among champions: wrestling. Whether you're looking at Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, or Henry Cejudo, they all dominated the cage with a solid wrestling foundation. In this article, you'll discover why wrestling isn’t just useful in MMA — it’s essential for long-term success.

You Want to Win – Wrestling Is Your Secret Weapon

Why Top MMA Fighters Often Have a Wrestling Background

The numbers don’t lie: the majority of UFC champions have a wrestling background. Why? Because wrestling teaches you how to control a fight — standing, in the clinch, or on the ground. Champions like Kamaru Usman and Daniel Cormier repeatedly shut down opponents with takedowns, relentless control, and suffocating pressure.

What Wrestling Teaches You That Other Styles Don’t

Unlike Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which often emphasizes reaction, wrestling is proactive. You dictate — not respond. You control where the fight takes place and how it unfolds. You also develop elite grip strength, explosiveness, balance, and unmatched conditioning.

The Mental Toughness Wrestling Builds

Wrestling is brutally demanding, both physically and mentally. It pushes you past your limits and conditions your mind to thrive under pressure. That mental grit is the foundation of every true champion. It teaches you to endure fatigue, adapt under stress, and stay composed — in and out of the cage.

The Risks of Ignoring Wrestling in MMA Training

Why Non-Wrestlers Often Struggle to Keep Control

Fighters without wrestling experience often find themselves playing catch-up. Against a solid wrestler, they’re quickly put on their back — with few options to recover. Their opponent dictates the pace and positioning, while they scramble to survive.

The Vulnerability of Pure Strikers in MMA

Strikers can look great — as long as they keep the fight standing. But what happens when a wrestler changes levels? Think of Israel Adesanya vs Jan Blachowicz, where Adesanya’s striking was completely shut down through superior ground control.

Wrestling Is About More Than Just Ground Fighting

Many people think wrestling only matters on the mat. Wrong. Elite wrestlers dominate the clinch, control tempo against the cage, and dictate exchanges even while standing. Wrestling is the ultimate tool for control in every situation.

Discover the Underrated Power of Wrestling in MMA

Pressure and Pace – Fighting on Your Terms

The fighter who controls the pace controls the outcome. Wrestlers know how to apply pressure without gassing out. They fight at their own rhythm, constantly forcing opponents to react and breaking their flow.

Wrestling Adds Strategy to Your Gameplan

Wrestling isn’t just brute strength — it’s tactical. When do you shoot for a takedown? How do you use the cage to win a scramble? How do you mix wrestling transitions with ground-and-pound? These layers make your game unpredictable and hard to read.

Grip, Explosiveness, and Balance – Physical Advantages

A wrestler’s grip strength, strong core, and explosive hips directly translate into MMA performance: faster takedowns, dominant clinch positions, and superior scramble control. These physical tools are built on the mat — and they win fights.

Train Like a Champion – Add Wrestling to Your MMA Routine

How to Start Wrestling as an MMA Beginner

Start simple: add 1–2 dedicated wrestling sessions per week. Focus on fundamentals like double-leg takedowns, sprawls, and underhook control. Combine these with MMA-specific drills to make them functional in live sparring.

The Ideal Balance Between Striking, BJJ, and Wrestling

A well-rounded fighter structures their week in blocks. A common example:

• 40% Striking

• 30% BJJ

• 30% Wrestling

This makes you dangerous in all areas — standing, clinching, or on the ground.

What You Need to Start Wrestling Training

You don’t need a ton of gear to start wrestling. A quality rash guard, knee protection, and optionally wrestling shoes will do. Check out the Fightstyle.nl collection for durable, fight-ready gear designed for real athletes.

The Success Stories – How Wrestling Built Champions

From Olympic Wrestlers to UFC Kings

Henry Cejudo won Olympic gold in wrestling, then claimed UFC titles in two divisions. Daniel Cormier and Khabib Nurmagomedov used their wrestling roots to dominate at the highest level. Their success wasn’t luck — it was the result of years on the mat.

What Their Style Tells Us About Wrestling in MMA

These champions didn’t just take opponents down — they held them there, drained their energy, and eliminated risk. Their style was built on pressure, positioning, and control — all anchored in wrestling.

Lessons You Can Learn from Their Gameplans

Control before damage. Build your strategy around wrestling positions. Use takedowns strategically to frustrate and wear down opponents. Train consistently, repeat your drills, and focus on grip strength, balance, and mental toughness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrestling in MMA

Do I Need to Learn Wrestling Before Starting MMA?

Not necessarily, but a strong wrestling base gives you a major edge from day one. You’ll quickly learn to control positions and defend or launch attacks effectively.

Am I Too Old to Start Wrestling?

No. Wrestling is accessible to all levels and ages. Adult beginners often start with technical drills and gradually build up. Consistency and listening to your body are key.

How Do I Combine Wrestling with Sparring and Technique Work?

Structure your week smartly. Alternate technique and sparring days with proper recovery. Example routine:

• Monday – Striking

• Tuesday – Wrestling

• Thursday – BJJ

• Friday – Sparring

• Sunday – Active recovery

This builds well-rounded skills while avoiding burnout.

Join the Fighters Who Set Themselves Apart With Wrestling

Why Investing in Wrestling Boosts Your Performance

With a solid wrestling foundation, you control the fight. You’re no longer reacting — you’re dictating. Wrestling increases your effectiveness, durability, and confidence. It’s an investment with high returns.

Start Today With the Right Gear and Support

Fightstyle.nl offers a handpicked selection of wrestling and MMA equipment. Our team of combat sports specialists provides expert guidance tailored to your level and goals.

Become Part of the Fightstyle Family – Train With Vision

At Fightstyle, it’s not just about winning — it’s about growth, both physically and mentally. Join a community that believes in discipline, progress, and getting stronger together.

Discover our wrestling gear and become stronger on the mat – explore the collection now.