History

Aba wrestling is one of the earliest forms of wrestling performed with clothing. Originating in Central Asia, it was initially used as a means of combat training and military preparation. Historical records suggest that Turkish communities introduced wrestling to the Chinese in the 4th century BCE. Over time, this traditional wrestling style influenced other forms of combat sports, with Judo in the Far East being regarded as a modernized adaptation of Aba Wrestling. Additionally, trouser wrestling, currently practiced in Sweden, is believed to have been introduced by Hun Turks who migrated to the Baltic region. Historically, this wrestling style was practiced by various Turkic groups, including the Scythians, Sakas, Uyghurs, Karahans, Mongols, Uzbeks, Kazakhs, Chagatais, and Kızık Turks, particularly those living in present-day Gaziantep and Antakya. Today, Aba Wrestling is still performed in Hatay and Gaziantep, preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Rules

Aba Wrestling is a sport in which wrestlers wear an "aba" on their backs and secure a belt around their waists. The competition takes place on a 30x30 meter field, typically covered in grass or soft sea sand, and enclosed with barbless wires or ropes. In Gaziantep, the style is known as Overthrowing Aba Wrestling, while in Hatay, it follows the Competitive Aba Wrestling format. Since the matches are often held at night, proper lighting is provided. If adverse weather conditions arise, competitions continue indoors.

The main objective in Aba Wrestling is to overpower the opponent by using grappling techniques while adhering to strict rules. Wrestlers must constantly grapple with their right hands while holding the opponent’s belt. The wrestler who is grabbing cannot release the opponent’s belt during the match. Certain actions are strictly prohibited, such as bringing the head from under the armpit toward the chest, or diving for a double or single leg by letting go of the opponent’s belt. Additionally, holding below the knee is not allowed. If a wrestler applies a headlock, they must not squeeze their opponent’s neck.