Inspiration: Crossface

A good submission hold is a joy to behold. I use the crossface in my matches, but I don't think that it's particularly well-known. My computer keeps auto-correcting it to crossfire, so it can't be that big, right? Of course it also insists that suplex should be duplex and Movimus should be movies, so what does it know?

For me, this hold is most associated with the late Chris Benoit as his Crippler Crossface finisher. I know that he is an extremely sensitive and disturbing topic for obvious reasons. However, let's focus on this hold. The reason the crossface worked so well for him is that a smaller wrestler can effectively apply this on a bigger one.

Benoit takes down Cena

Smaller Jonny on bigger Guido (find it here)

It's actually a fairly simple concept that can be applied in multiple ways. No matter how you get there, it's a crossface when the victim is chest down with an arm trapped between the applier's legs, his head pulled up and face etched with pain.

Bruce feels the pain (find it here)

Cena trapped again

Mountain destroys beefy Braden (find it here)

For pros, another benefit is that it's one of those sudden submission holds that can turn a match around and shock the fans. Often it comes out of nowhere, so it gets a huge pop. The applier ducks a clothesline or similar move, grabs the arm from behind then drives the victim down face first into the mat. Before you know it, the guy who was in control is tapping.

It's fast and deadly

Rock uses Benoit's hold against him

For non-pros, you probably don't want to go from standing. That doesn't mean you can't use it, it just means you're being safe and smart. It's still pretty easy. Wrap your legs around the arm and pull up on the head. Same effect, just done in a responsible way.

Give us a smile, Dom! Tak makes you a perfect
example for my post (find it here)

Ares adds a nice touch to his crossface (find it here)

In terms of variations, there are many. Essentially, they all involve a similar idea - trapping the arm(s) and pulling up on the head. Some guys hook both arms, others trap legs ... to me it's all the same effect with a little personal style thrown in.

Batista Bite

Zack wraps up Jake's leg (find it here)

Cena on top with his version

So that's the crossface. If you want to see more, Wrestling Arsenal has FIVE galleries devoted to this move and its variations.

WRESTLING ARSENAL: GALLERIES

What do you think? Is it new to you? Hot or not? The comment box is waiting for your thoughts.

Alex