description Mongolian Wrestling (Bökh) Overview
Bökh, or Mongolian wrestling, is a traditional grappling sport and one of the three main events of Mongolia's Naadam festival, alongside horse racing and archery. A match is lost when any part of a competitor's body other than the soles of the feet touches the ground. Wrestlers wear distinctive costumes consisting of a front-opening jacket called a zodog, short shorts called shuudag, and traditional boots. Bökh has been practiced for centuries and holds significant cultural importance in Mongolia.
help Mongolian Wrestling (Bökh) FAQ
What is the main rule in Mongolian Bökh?
A wrestler loses when any part of the body other than the soles of the feet touches the ground. Unlike many wrestling styles, a knee, hand, or elbow touching down can end the bout.
Where is Mongolian wrestling performed?
Bökh is one of the three main events of Mongolia's Naadam festival, alongside horse racing and archery. It is also practised in local and regional competitions throughout Mongolia.
What clothing do Mongolian wrestlers wear?
Traditional wrestlers wear a zodog jacket, shuudag briefs, boots, and a distinctive hat for ceremonial occasions. The open-chested jacket is designed to make it difficult to conceal a grip or illegal clothing.
Are there weight classes in traditional Mongolian Bökh?
Traditional Naadam Bökh is not organized around modern weight classes in the way Olympic wrestling is. Competitors can therefore face opponents with very different body sizes and styles.
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