Mongolian wrestling is a national sport that symbolizes strength, heritage, and ancient traditions. Without restrictions on time or weight categories, it combines physical power, traditional techniques, and elegant wrestling moves.
Mongolian wrestling originated from the military training and conquests of ancient nomadic warriors. Today, it has developed into a valuable cultural heritage, representing national identity, tradition, the strength of men, and the mastery of wrestling techniques.
Key Features of Mongolian Wrestling:
- Attire: Wrestlers wear traditional clothing consisting of a "zodog" (open-front vest), "shuudag" (short wrestling briefs), boots, and a traditional hat. The open design of the zodog is associated with a legend that women once participated in wrestling competitions.
- Devee and Shavaa (Wrestler's Dance): Before and after matches, wrestlers perform the "devee" dance, imitating the movements of eagles and falcons. This represents strength, dignity, and pride while also serving as a warm-up ritual.
- Titles and Rankings: In Naadam wrestling competitions, wrestlers receive national titles based on the number of rounds they win. These titles include Nachin (Falcon), Zaan (Elephant), Garid (Garuda), Arslan (Lion), and Avarga (Champion), many of which are named after powerful animals.
- Rules: Unlike many other wrestling styles, Mongolian wrestling has no time limit or weight categories. A wrestler is considered defeated when any part of their body other than their hands or feet touches the ground.
- Zasuul (Wrestler's Assistant): Each wrestler is accompanied by a zasuul during competitions. Their duties include carrying the wrestler's hat, providing advice on techniques, and announcing the wrestler's titles and achievements.