How Wrestling Challenge Reviews Work Explainer
In United World Wrestling competition, a challenge allows a coach to request video review of a disputed scoring action when the event has an approved video system. The request must come immediately after points are awarded or not awarded, usually through an electronic button or by throwing the provided challenge object.
The wrestler may reject the coach's request, allowing the bout to continue. If accepted, the refereeing delegate and mat chairman examine the available video, normally shown on a screen visible at the venue. The review focuses on the contested sequence rather than reopening the entire match.
Each wrestler begins with one challenge. If the review changes the decision in that wrestler's favor, the challenge is retained and may be used again. If the original decision is confirmed, the opponent normally receives one point and the unsuccessful wrestler loses the challenge.
Some decisions cannot be challenged, including specified passivity calls and a fall once confirmed, though action leading to a fall may present a reviewable issue under the rules. If a major technical failure prevents review, the original ruling stands and the coach keeps the challenge.
The coach requests it on the wrestler's behalf immediately after the disputed call.
No. When the decision changes in the wrestler's favor, the challenge is retained.
The opponent normally receives one point and the challenge is lost.
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