How can a wrestler score points apart from takedowns?

Wrestlers can score points in various ways beyond just obtaining takedowns, and the answer highlights critical scoring maneuvers in a match. Apart from takedowns, points can effectively be earned through escapes, where a wrestler breaks free from an opponent's control; reversals, when a wrestler reverses the position while grappling; and near-falls, which occur when a wrestler holds their opponent's back to the mat for a brief moment.

These scoring methods reflect the complexity and strategy involved in wrestling, where controlling the opponent and transitioning between offensive and defensive positions is pivotal. Takedowns certainly score valuable points, but the ability to escape, reverse, or nearly pin an opponent underlines the wrestlers' skill set and tactical approaches during a match.

As a result, this comprehensive understanding of scoring helps wrestlers maximize their chances of winning by utilizing multiple strategies throughout the bout.