Just come across this blog from somebody who is researching wrestling in New Cross in the late 19th/early 20th century. (No, Mick McManus doesn't appear!)https://grapplingwithhistory.com/
The reason of creating catch-hold was to have 'national wrestling style' just like let's say French had their style which we now know as GR...In England there was NO such a thing as national style, instead each region had their own wrestling traditions. In the 1870s in London they came up with an idea of making up such style. Wannop became best pro wrestler of his weight and most technically skilled one. The heavyweight champs among pros at first was Boltonian Giant William Snape and then famous George Steadman. That's about it.
Jack Wannop was considered the best pound for pound catch-hold wrestler of his generation. Nope, he wasn't heavyweight, but he was very gifted and crafty wrestler, great technician. Catch-hold was a wrestling style popular among professionals and amateurs in 19c England, conditions were any hold of the body above the waist, tripping allowed, first down to lose.
A great find John. Incredible how something like this should just appear. If you look at the post for 22nd February there is a mention of Mick McManus! But we are all going to have to learn to love Jack Wannop.
Tidal Wrestling have a show at the New Cross Inn this coming October
The reason of creating catch-hold was to have 'national wrestling style' just like let's say French had their style which we now know as GR...In England there was NO such a thing as national style, instead each region had their own wrestling traditions. In the 1870s in London they came up with an idea of making up such style. Wannop became best pro wrestler of his weight and most technically skilled one. The heavyweight champs among pros at first was Boltonian Giant William Snape and then famous George Steadman. That's about it.
You know we all love you Bernard.
Cheeky ! you will get into trouble with comments like that, Whippersnapper !
Did you see his dad Bernard?
And before anyone asks, No ,I did not see Jack Wannock.
I'm pleased to see this blog continue to develop. Not everyones cup of tea. Very well written and researched
Jack Wannop was considered the best pound for pound catch-hold wrestler of his generation. Nope, he wasn't heavyweight, but he was very gifted and crafty wrestler, great technician. Catch-hold was a wrestling style popular among professionals and amateurs in 19c England, conditions were any hold of the body above the waist, tripping allowed, first down to lose.
A great find John. Incredible how something like this should just appear. If you look at the post for 22nd February there is a mention of Mick McManus! But we are all going to have to learn to love Jack Wannop.