In wrestling, an overhook, also incorrectly called a wizard (a whizzer is when the opponent's armpit and shoulder are lifted with an overhook hold, usually done against leg takedown attacks), is a
clinch hold that is used to control the opponent. An overhook is performed from any direction by putting an arm over the opponent's arm, and encircling the opponent's arm or upper body.
Having an overhook with one arm is called a single overhook, while having overhooks with both arms is known as double overhooks.
Overhooks are typically employed in response to
underhooks by an opponent.
Single overhook
A single overhook can be used to
take an opponent down. The protagonist hooks over one arm of the opponent, simultaneously moving to that side of the opponent, often while holding the opponent's other upper arm or elbow with his other hand. He puts his weight on the opponent's hooked arm, forcing him to the ground, and then steps over the opponent's back.
Double overhooks
The double overhooks are generally considered inferior to
double underhooks, and are often used in response to double underhooks by the opponent. If the opponent's hands can be locked to the opponent's body it is possible to advance into a
bear hug, with the opponent's arms pinned. Most commonly however, the overhooks are used to prevent the opponent from advancing into a bear hug, by locking the double overhooks around the opponent's double underhooks.
See also
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Bear hug
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Collar-and-elbow position
A collar-and-elbow hold is a stand-up grappling position where both combatants have a collar tie, and hold the opponent's other arm at the elbow. Generally the opening move in professional wrestling, the collar-and-elbow is generally a neutral p ...
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Collar tie
Collar tie is a grappling clinch hold that is used to control the opponent. It is performed from the front of the opponent by grabbing the opponent by the collar, behind the neck, or behind the trapezius muscle. A collar tie using one hand is cal ...
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Pinch grip tie
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Over-under position
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Underhook
References
Grappling hold
Wrestling
Grappling positions
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