Double Leg: Takedown Attacking Both of the Opponent's Legs
The double leg takedown is a wrestling technique where a fighter shoots forward to grab both of the opponent's legs, drives through them, and brings the opponent to the ground. It is the most common and high-percentage takedown in combat sports, used by wrestlers, MMA fighters, and grapplers at every level. A successful double leg typically results in the attacker landing in a dominant top position.
Origins and Usage
The double leg takedown is a staple of freestyle and folkstyle wrestling, where it has been drilled and perfected for over a century. The technique requires explosive forward movement, level changes, and proper head positioning to execute safely and effectively. Wrestlers spend thousands of hours drilling the double leg and its many variations.
In MMA, the double leg became a foundational technique that allowed wrestlers to dictate where the fight takes place. Fighters who can threaten with the double leg force opponents to adjust their stance and striking, creating openings in both the standup and ground phases.
In Underground Fighting
In underground fighting environments, the double leg is a game-changing technique. On hard surfaces like concrete or packed earth, being driven to the ground via a double leg can be devastating, as there are no mats to cushion the impact. The slam factor alone has ended underground fights before any ground striking begins.
Fighters in underground circuits who possess strong double legs are feared because they can neutralize even the hardest punchers by taking the fight to the ground. However, shooting for a double leg in bare knuckle fighting carries risk, as the opponent can land knees and uppercuts during the entry.
Related Terms
- Single Leg -- Takedown attacking one leg instead of both
- Takedown -- The general act of bringing an opponent to the ground
- Sprawl -- The primary defense against a double leg takedown
See Also
- Ground and Pound -- Striking from top position after a successful takedown
- Body Lock -- Clinch grip that can transition into a double leg