For martial artists, one of the most satisfying feelings is finally landing a takedown. A successful takedown requires careful execution. But for it to work on an experienced opponent, it requires an additional perfect combination of speed and timing.
Learning wrestling takedowns is important for any mixed martial arts practitioner. It requires you to put your opponent off-balance and bring him or her to the ground, preferably with you landing on top. When executed perfectly, a takedown is one of the best (and most spectacular) ways of dominating your opponent.
Today, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best takedown artists in mixed martial arts today. Tell us, which ones are your favorites?
1) Georges St-Pierre
One of the most well rounded fighters to date, St-Pierre was lauded by BleacherReport.com as one of the top 5 takedown fighters in UFC history. With a 74% takedown accuracy, St-Pierre’s takedowns are undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.
2) Ben Askren
Listed by Sherdog.com as one of the Welterweight greats, Askren is a former Bellator and ONE Championship Welterweight champion. A US Olympian, FILA Grappling World Champion and a two-time NCAA Division 1 Champion, Ben is one of the top grapplers and wrestlers in the world.
3) Randy Couture
Also a seasoned wrestler, Couture has been inducted to the UFC Hall of Fame. He is also the first UFC fighter to hold title belts in two weight classes (Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight).
4) Shinya Aoki
A black belt in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, there’s no doubt that Aoki’s takedowns are nothing but effective. He is known to transition quickly to submissions, especially his leglocks.
5) Ronda Rousey
Prior to becoming the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, Rousey was a highly accomplished Judoka, winning a bronze medal in the 2008 Olympic Games. With a perfect undefeated MMA record, her takedowns and quick transitions have yet to be stopped by a worthy opponent.
