10 Most Devastating Wrestling Submission Holds Ever

By Alexander Podgorski /

10. Dragon Sleeper

Innovated by Tatsumi Fujinami and popularized in the U.S. by Ultimo Dragon, the Dragon Sleeper is basically an inverted headlock, where the user tries to put their opponent to sleep with only one arm instead of the usual two associated with the original sleeper hold. Sometimes, the user also hooks the victim€™s near arm to prevent them from using it to free themselves. If the user is sitting down, they can press their knee into the victim€™s back, adding pressure and making it easier for them to submit. It€™s a useful submission hold to use, as it can be easily applied by simply standing behind one€™s opponent and wrapping your arm around their neck.A lot of wrestlers have used this move, including Ultimo Dragon to Gail Kim, to Lashley to Hiroshi Tanahashi. While not always a match-ending maneuver, it€™s a great rest hold, allowing for the wrestlers involved to get ready for the end of the match, or to add drama and fan interest in the match.