When Japan Made Pro Wrestling Real: The Story of the UWF

UltimateGround
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The origins of “shoot style”

Very well done work by this random YouTube feed channel.

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The term “shoot” refers to the real application of techniques, as opposed to a “work”. The shoot wrestling techniques are often applied in shoot-style professional wrestling matches, which feature non-predetermined outcomes, but with much technique applied in a stiff or full contact manner.

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I’m not even finished this yet but what a cool story this is.

Also holy shit at Akira Maeda that guy is a dirty shoot maniac

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There is much debate about whether the “strong style” practiced by the Japanese of this era was really first. Many would argue that the stiff, shoot wrestling style started in the UK and is referred to as the Wigan influence. Others credit the catch wrestling popularized in Germany by Otto Wanz and in the US by wrestlers like Frank Gotch, Lou Thesz, and Ed (Strangler) Lewis were actually first. Certainly the crazy exploding ring, barbed wire death match type stuff started in Japan when Oneida and Maieda started their promotions. I have never been a fan of the hardcore nonsense but guys who work snug are better at making us suspend disbelief. As a youngster, I was legit terrified of guys like The Sheik (Farhat), Dick the Bruiser, Ernie Ladd, Da Crusher, Ox Baker,Abdullah, etc. The Sheik and Abdullah were hardcore and nearly alway got color from their opponents via pencil or fork. The other guys were masters of making you want to come to the arena the next week to see the baby face get their revenge. Wrestling was better in the days of territories and kayfabe. I used to be a fan but Vince ruined it with his “episodic television” skits and cartoon characters. Have not watched in years.

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Very interesting.

We know the Japs were ahead of everyone else with MMA as Shooto has been holding MMA cards since 1985? 84?

I’m thinking they also started “shoot style” or “strong style”

The culture is utterly steeped in combat.

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Looks great will definitely check this out later when I have more time!

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Keep us posted on your thoughts bro.