Initial Fireman Carry Defense: Leg Kick
The most common instinctive defense against a fireman carry involves kicking the opponent's leg back while pushing on their upper body. However, this basic defense is incomplete against experienced wrestlers, as the attacker can recover by popping their hand up and tipping the defender over to complete the takedown.
Limitations of Sprawling Alone
Sprawling backward when an opponent initiates the fireman carry setup proves ineffective against skilled attackers. Even if the defender successfully prevents the initial bend, the attacker maintains control and can still complete the takedown by rotating the defender onto their back.
Preventing the Bend: Elbow Control
The critical moment in fireman carry defense occurs when the attacker begins to bend the defender forward. To stop the attack, the defender must immediately lift the attacker's elbow upward, preventing the forward bend that enables the takedown.
Lateral Drop Counter
Once the defender controls the opponent's elbow and prevents the bend, they can execute a lateral drop by rotating behind the opponent and driving them onto their back. From this position, the defender can either obtain top control or establish a pinning position using a cross-face.
Hip Contact and Elbow Clearance
When the attacker initiates the fireman carry, the defender must meet them with a hip strike and immediately work to clear their trapped elbow from the attacker's grip. Clearing the elbow takes priority over securing the leg, as a trapped arm leads to a completed takedown.
Breaking the C-Grip Mechanics
The attacker's grip on the defender's arm functions as a C-grip that tightens around the bone. To escape, the defender must rotate their arm inward to turn the bones inside the grip, then pull hard, similar to escaping a wrist lock.
Escape and Back Take
After breaking free from the grip and sprawling, the defender can take the opponent's back by rotating to face the attacker's back. This high-percentage option provides control and positioning advantages for the defender.
Forearm Throw Alternative
If the defender cannot clear their elbow and the grip remains tight, they can use their forearm to throw the opponent and transition directly to taking their back, bypassing the need to fully escape the initial position.
How to defend a fireman's carry.
Key Takeaways
- •Initial Fireman Carry Defense: Leg Kick
- •Limitations of Sprawling Alone
- •Preventing the Bend: Elbow Control
- •Lateral Drop Counter
Fireman's carry defence. Two options. So far this are the two best options to defend the fireman's carry throw that I have been using successfully in my freestyle wrestling matches. I really hope this moves will helps you in your grappling journey either as a coach or as a competitor. If you enjoyed this video please consider subscribing to my YouTube channel. Thank you Disclaimer: The exercises demonstrated in this video can be potentially dangerous if not performed correctly or without proper supervision. It is important to note that these exercises require gradual progression and should only be attempted under the guidance of a qualified professional. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries. Proceed with caution and listen to your body to avoid any potential risks or injuries. . . . Welcome to my YouTube channel where I teach all things wrestling! And more. My name is Achilles, your dedicated wrestling coach. Follow me as I guide you on your journey to becoming a wrestling superstar. With over 30 years of experience and a passion for the sport, I'll share valuable tips and techniques to help you reach new heights on the mat. But that’s not all. I will make sure to post loads of other things related to grappling sports so you can get as much value as possible out of this channel. Subscribe to the Achilles Wrestling World and let me help you in your grappling journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard fireman carry?
This video covers initial fireman carry defense: leg kick, limitations of sprawling alone, preventing the bend: elbow control. It provides detailed instruction from Achilles’ Wrestling World.
How long does it take to learn standard fireman carry?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard fireman carry?
After breaking free from the grip and sprawling, the defender can take the opponent's back by rotating to face the attacker's back. This high-percentage option provides control and positioning advantages for the defender.
