Suplex: The Definitive Guide

The wrestling suplex is a signature move used by professional wrestlers all around the world. It is an impressive and effective maneuver that, when done correctly, can be one of the most powerful weapons in any wrestler’s arsenal.

With this guide, you will learn all about the history of the suplex, how to perform it with proper technique, and what makes it so effective as a finishing move.

You’ll also discover some creative variations on the classic suplex which have been developed over time by innovative wrestlers looking to surprise their opponents with something new.

So if you’re interested in taking your grappling skills up a notch, read on for everything you need to know about mastering this iconic pro-wrestling maneuver!

wrestlers during a suplex

Table of Contents

What is a Suplex in Wrestling?

A suplex is a move in which the wrestler lifts their opponent off the ground and then slams them down onto the mat. It is considered a defensive move, as it can be used to turn the tide in a match by quickly reversing the momentum from one wrestler’s favor to another. Suplexes can also be used to set up a pin attempt, or they can be used as a finishing move when executed powerfully enough.

The history of the suplex dates back to the early days of pro wrestling, but it has remained a mainstay in modern wrestling as well as amateur wrestling due to its effectiveness and showmanship. Usually, the wrestler performing the suplex will take a few steps back and get some momentum before they lift their opponent up and slam them down.

Is It Legal to Suplex in Wrestling?

Yes, suplexes are legal in all forms of wrestling except folkstyle. However, there are certain variations that may be illegal depending on the particular ruleset of the organization in which you are wrestling. In amateur wrestling, for example, some suplexes are considered illegal because they involve too much risk of injury.

Suplex Types

There are different types of suplexes that can be performed depending on the situation. These include:

  • Front Suplex
  • Back Suplex (german suplex)
  • Belly-to-belly Suplex
  • Side Suplex (Sambo suplex)
  • Vertical Suplex
  • Tiger Suplex
  • Superplex
  • Fisherman suplex
  • Swinging fisherman suplex
  • Fallaway suplex
  • Package fallaway suplex
  • Hammerlock suplex
  • Suplex slam
  • Slingshot suplex
  • Tornado suplex
  • Drop suplex
  • Saito suplex (Backdrop)
  • Gutwrench suplex
  • Butterfly suplex
  • Capture suplex
  • Head-and-arm suplex
  • Inverted Suplex

Women Wrestling Suplex

Women wrestling suplexes are often seen in mixed martial arts, but they can also be used to great effect in professional wrestling. Women wrestlers typically use the same types of suplexes as men wrestlers but may modify them slightly to take into account their smaller size and strength.

Women’s wrestling suplexes are often used to set up other moves or surprise opponents. An example of a woman wrestler who has mastered this is Ronda Rousey, who used the judo hip toss to her advantage during her championship run.

Olympic Wrestling Suplex

The suplex is also a move that is commonly used in Olympic wrestling. It was first used in the 1992 Summer Olympics and has been a staple in the sport ever since. Olympic wrestlers use a variety of suplexes to gain an advantage over their opponents, including back suplexes and belly-to-belly suplexes.

Freestyle Wrestling Suplex

Freestyle wrestling is a form of amateur wrestling that has been around since the late 19th century. The suplex is a common move in freestyle wrestling, and it is often used to gain an advantage over an opponent who might be on their back or in a vulnerable position. Freestyle wrestlers may also use suplexes as part of their defensive strategy or to set up pin attempts.

Judo Suplex

The judo suplex is a variation of the traditional suplex that was developed in Japan. In judo, the wrestler will use their opponent’s momentum to lift them up and then slam them onto the mat. This type of suplex is often used to set up other moves or to surprise an unsuspecting opponent. Judo suplexes are also used in mixed martial arts as a way to take an opponent down quickly and gain a dominant position.

WWE Suplex

The suplex is one of the signature moves used by professional wrestlers in WWE. It can be used as a finishing move, to set up pin attempts, or to turn the momentum of a match around in an instant.

The most common type of suplex seen in WWE is the German Suplex, but over the years wrestlers have adapted and innovated to create their own variations. Some of these variations include the Tiger Suplex, Superplex, Fisherman Suplex, Slingshot Suplex, and Inverted Suplex. WWE stars have also adapted the judo suplex to use in their matches, making it one of the most popular moves in professional wrestling.

Can You Suplex in Greco-roman Wrestling?

Yes, suplexes are commonly used in Greco-Roman wrestling. There are a few different types of suplexes that can be used, such as the single-leg suplex, double-leg suplex, and headlock suplex. These moves are often used to gain an advantage over an opponent or to set up other moves. Greco-Roman wrestlers will also use suplexes as a way to take an opponent down quickly and gain a dominant position.

Can You Suplex in BJJ?

No, suplexes are not allowed in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, as they involve slamming someone to the ground. However, there are a few techniques that are similar to suplexes, such as the hip toss and shoulder throw. These techniques can be used to gain a dominant position on the ground or to surprise an unsuspecting opponent.

What Makes Suplkex So Effective as a Finishing Move?

Suplexes are effective as a finishing move because they can be used to quickly and decisively take an opponent off their feet. This can often be enough to earn a pinfall victory in professional wrestling.

Suplexes also allow wrestlers to set up other moves, as they can be used to quickly transition from one move to another. As a result, suplexes are often used as a way to surprise opponents or to set up other powerful finishing moves. Finally, suplexes can be used to demonstrate a wrestler’s strength and dominance in the ring.

What Wrestler is Known for Suplex?

Brock Lesnar is known as one of the most formidable suplexes in professional wrestling. He has mastered a wide variety of suplexes, including the German suplex and belly-to-back suplex.

Lesnar is also known for his signature “F5” suplex, which is a variation of the German suplex. Lesnar has used his suplexes to win matches in WWE and other major promotions, making him one of the most successful wrestlers in history.

How to Perform a Suplex in Wrestling?

The proper technique for performing a suplex is essential for successful execution.

The first step is to get into a good position. This can be done by using an overlook, undertook, or collar tie. Once in the proper position, the wrestler should use their arms and legs to lift the opponent up off the mat.

Then, the wrestler should “slam” their opponent down by extending their arms and legs out as far as possible. It is also important to ensure that the opponent’s head and shoulders are the first parts of their body to hit the mat.

Finally, the wrestler should secure a pin attempt as soon as possible after completing the suplex. With practice, wrestlers can master the technique and timing needed to safely and effectively perform a suplex in wrestling.

FAQs

What Happens When You Suplex Someone?

When you suplex someone, it can be used to quickly take them off their feet and gain an advantage in a match. It can also be used as a finishing move, to set up pin attempts, or to surprise an unsuspecting opponent.

Can You Suplex Someone Out of the Ring?

Yes, some wrestlers will use a suplex to throw an opponent out of the ring. This is often done as a way to gain a psychological advantage over their opponent, as it can be seen as a show of strength and dominance.

What Is the Difference Between Suplex and Takedown?

A suplex is a move used in wrestling that involves taking an opponent off their feet by lifting them up and slamming them down. A takedown is any move where an opponent is taken to the ground, regardless of how they are taken down.

Suplexes can be used as a takedown, but not all takedowns involve a suplex. It is important for wrestlers to know and understand the difference between these two moves in order to properly execute them in the ring.

How much damage can a suplex do?

A suplex can do a lot of damage if it is not performed properly. The most common injuries from suplexes are to the back, neck, and head due to the amount of force that is involved in the move. It is important for wrestlers to practice proper technique and safety protocols when attempting a suplex in order to minimize any potential injuries.

What is the most famous suplex?

The most famous suplex is probably the German suplex, which is a variation of the standard suplex. The German suplex involves lifting an opponent up onto your shoulders before slamming them down back-first onto the injuries at that time. It is a powerful movement that has been used by some of the greatest wrestlers in history, such as Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle.

Who is the master of suplex?

As mentioned, Brock Lesnar is widely considered to be the master of suplexes in professional wrestling. He has mastered a wide variety of suplexes, including the German suplex and belly-to-back suplex.

Also, Gary Albright is another wrestler who has a reputation for being one of the best suplexes in pro wrestling. He was known for his German and belly-to-belly suplexes, as well as his powerful powerbomb finisher. As such, Lesnar and Albright are both considered to be masters of the suplex move in professional wrestling.

Does suplex hurt?

Yes, suplexes can be very painful if they are not performed correctly. It is important for wrestlers to practice proper technique and safety protocols when executing a suplex in order to minimize any potential injuries.

Additionally, suplexes can cause serious damage if they are used with too much force or if they are done incorrectly. As such, it is important to practice suplexes with a trained professional before using them in an actual match.

Conclusion

Suplexes are powerful moves that can be used to quickly take an opponent off their feet and gain a dominant position. There are several variations of the suplex, including the German Suplex, Tiger Suplex, Superplex, Fisherman Suplex, Slingshot Suplex, and Inverted Suplex. They are popular moves used in professional wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling.

Brock Lesnar is one of the most successful suplex users in wrestling history. It is important to practice proper technique and timing in order to safely and effectively perform a suplex. With hard work and dedication, wrestlers can learn how to use this move to their advantage in the ring.