Wrestling is not just a show but a real cultural phenomenon, and each country has its own traditions and rules of the game. From powerful American storylines to acrobatic Mexican lucha libre, from tough Japanese puroresu to technical European wrestling, each region has its own unique take on the sport. Let’s break down how wrestling differs in different parts of the world.

USA and Canada

If we talk about the most recognizable and popular wrestling in the world, then, of course, the first to come to mind are the USA and Canada. Here, wrestling is a full-fledged show where not only fights but also storylines come to the fore. In major American promotions like WWE and AEW, the matches are only part of the story, and the characters of the wrestlers, their conflicts, alliances, and betrayals turn every episode of the show into a dramatic series.

There is a clear division into “faces” (positive heroes) and “heels” (villains), and their clashes are a struggle between good and evil. The villains can organize attacks not only in the ring but also outside it, for example, in backstage interviews. This approach makes American wrestling as exciting as possible, and the wrestlers’ characters are real superheroes (or supervillains).

Mexican Lucha Libre

While wrestling is primarily scripted in the US, it is more like a circus show with martial arts elements in Mexico. Lucha libre is characterized by frenzied dynamics, acrobatic moves, and impressive jumps off the ropes. Here, wrestlers, or “luchadors”, literally fly around the ring, performing complex combinations and spectacular throws.

Another important element is masks, which have a sacred meaning in lucha libre. Taking off the mask from the opponent is humiliating, and losing it in a match is a real disaster for the wrestler. In Mexican wrestling, team matches are also popular, and the lineups often include three fighters instead of the usual two.

So if you like speed, colorful costumes, and pure action – Mexican wrestling is definitely worth your attention.

European Old School

European wrestling is pure wrestling with more emphasis on technique. This is especially true in Great Britain, Germany, Austria, and France, where wrestling originally developed as an extension of classical wrestling.

• The British style of wrestling, known as “catch wrestling”, is famous for its chain transitions from one hold to another, a variety of counter holds, and high technique. It is not so much about striking and jumping as it is about body control and the ability to avoid the opponent’s attacks.
• Germany and Austria in the XX century were the center of large tournaments, which competed with the best wrestlers in the world. In these countries, wrestling was often associated with cultural festivals, and some German champions even won titles for American promotions.
• French wrestling, on the other hand, became more acrobatic and colorful in the 1970s and 1980s due to the influence of Mexican lucha libre and American wrestling.

However, by the 90s, localized European styles began to give way to American wrestling, which began to dominate television. Despite this, British catch wrestling and the German “tournament” style still retain their audiences.