Rules of Devon Wrestling (1888)

Devon wrestling differs from most other modes. It would, however, be easy to demonstrate its superiority over that practised by other wrestlers, who are unable, with any amount of success, to meet any stranger who does not conform to their own style, whereas knowledge of Devon wrestling enables man to successfully meet whomsoever cares to confront him. The following will be found the rules which are observed in all matches or contests :— Each contestant chooses umpire, and if a referee cannot be agreed upon mutually, the two umpires toss for one. Sometimes power is given the stakeholder to name one ; when this done the preliminaries are more easily got over at the ring side. The men after to the drawers put on a strong canvas jacket, though ordinary ones would do equally well, if very strong. man may get his holds upon any part of his opponent’s jacket, but he must not take both collars in one hand, neither is he allowed to catch hold of the legs, drawers, or belt. To obtain a “back” one must be pitched flatly upon his back. The articles should state whether “three pin” or “four pin” match agreed upon; if the former, two shoulders and one hip, or two hip and one shoulder must touch the ground ere back is won ; if the latter, the two shoulders and two hips must simultaneously pitch upon the ground. No back allowed if a man’s leg, side, or shoulder first reach the ground ; neither is there, if in throwing a man, the thrower allows any part of his own body to be undermost; even the hand or arm, if between a man’s back and the ground, is sufficient to disqualify back, no matter how “flat” the back is otherwise given. Backs are often disallowed only on account of this slight infringement. The rules should be read to the men by the referee before play begins. All arrangements being made, the order is given to commence play ; each man then walks to the centre of the ring, and shakes his antagonist’s right hand. The hands must then be separated, after which each tries his best to get good holds. This accomplished the struggle for the falls take place.— Sporting Life.

Western Times – w/c 26th January 1888.