How to Do a Suplex in Mixed Martial Arts

A suplex is a very flashy way to throw your opponent to the mat in mixed martial arts. It involves picking your opponent up and using your own body weight to thrust him backward then drive him into the ground. There are many variations of the suplex but the most common lifts the opponent from behind, bends backwards then twists in midair so that the impact with the floor is felt predominantly by your opponent.

Instructions

1. Seize your opponent from behind while standing. This often happens while your opponent is trying to twist out of a clench or stands up while you are attempting to control him from behind on the ground. When your opponent stands up, lock your hands tightly around his waist and pull him toward you.

2. Lower your center of gravity. It is essential that your hips are below your opponent's hips for the suplex to work. Bend both knees while keeping your back straight. Do this quickly since your opponent will be trying to drop his center of gravity and unlock your hands at the same time. You must beat him to it.

3. Pop your hips skyward in a sudden motion. Do this by straightening your legs and pulling up with both arms. Since your hips are beneath your opponent's hips you can lift him quite easily even if he is bigger than you.

4. Arch your back and lean backwards. This will make both of your fall toward your backs. Since your opponent is on the outside of the arc you are following, he is falling farther. He will start to flail in midair in an attempt to control his descent. It is a futile effort since you have all the control.

5. Twist your body to one side about midway into your suplex. If you don't twist, the weight of both of you will land on your back. Twisting sideways moves your opponent toward the ground first. You have a great deal of control over how he lands. Turning a little bit late in your fall will make him land on his side. Turning a lot early in your fall will make him land on his head.

6. Drive your opponent into the ground. Once you reach the halfway point in your suplex, gravity takes over and speeds up both bodies. If you want to cause serious damage to your opponent, slam him downward in the last few feet before he hits the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• If you drop anyone on their head or neck you could cause serious injury or death. Use common sense and extreme caution when performing the suplex.