By Lili Metanovic and Sadie York
Founded in 1976 by a group of friends in Wetton, Derbyshire, toe wrestling has developed into an exclusive sport with a small but devoted fan base. It was created to recognize the British and their fun way of creating new games that have utterly no purpose. On a specially made “toedium,” a little wooden stage where competitors can lock toes, competitors compete barefoot. Each match consists of three rounds, with the first round being played with the right foot, the second with the left, and a third round in which the choice of foot is determined in the event of a tie. Each round begins with players hooking big toes and then pushing against one another to pin the other player’s foot down for three counts. To win a round, you must pin your opponent’s foot for 3 seconds. Out of the total 3 rounds, you must win 2 to be considered victorious. The World Toe Wrestling Championships are held annually in the UK. Although we see it as an unserious sport, many people out there take it very seriously and train for months to ensure their feet can last through the competition with no injuries.
Despite its playful nature, toe wrestling has an incredibly strict set of rules. Referees conduct a toe examination on competitors to ensure no one has an unfair advantage because of injuries or toe enhancers. Players must also maintain clean feet for the close-contact activity. Judges keep an eye on matches to ensure proper form and fair play. Given its strangeness, toe wrestling has grown to be a known “specialized sport” that honors British pride and toe strength. It is a unique blend of humor and competition and attracts interested players and fans from all over the world with its fun environment.
Here are some Toe Wrestling Clips:
World Toe Wrestling Championships 2019