The Cornwall form of wrestling, which resembles judo, has been a part of this region in the UK for several centuries. In order to get a better grip, wrestlers in Cornwall wear tough jackets and all moves or holds are made on the jacket itself. Clutching of the lower body or the wrists or fingers may lead to disqualification but deflections can be made using the flat of the hand. The Cornish wrestling association was formed in 1923 to frame a standard set of rules for the sport and also to promote and popularize it not only in Cornwall and the UK but also around the world.

The primary aim of the sport is to throw the opponent such that he lands as flat as possible on the floor. The game is conducted and regulated by three “sticklers”, as the referees are also known, and they are responsible for keeping the scores in addition to controlling each bout.

On the back of each wrestler are four pins which are attached to it. When a wrestler throws his opponent onto the ground lying on his back and at the same time scoring with all the four pins, then they score a back which equals four points. This signals the end of the bout and the wrestler who scores the back is declared the winner.

One of the first reliable accounts of this version of the sport can be traced to the battle of Agincourt in 1415. As a matter of fact the banner of the Cornish men was two Cornish wrestlers in a hitch.

An annual feature at the UK Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show is the Cornish wrestling tent that can be located near the west entrance. In it can be found an interesting display of wrestling belts, trophies, and books. Demonstrations are made by the wresters during these days of all the various intricate and diverse moves of the sport.