Erik Paulson’s new landmark book Rough and Tumble explores the History of American Submission Wrestling in a way the style has never been looked at before. Erik worked with American Combat Association president Matt Granahan and researcher and author JD Dwyer to trace the history of catch wrestling throughout the world and explore the overwhelming influence the style has had on No Holds Barred Fighting and Mixed Martial Arts. In addition to their extensive research the authors sat down with the last living take on all comers carnival wrestlers to explore the history from a first hand perspective. From George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, to Mitsuyo Maeda’s background before teaching the Gracie Family to the dawn of the Ultimate Fighting Championships this book touches upon virtually every facet of the history of grappling. Rough and Tumble is guaranteed to captivate and enlighten fans, fighters and history buffs alike.
“I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in MMA, wrestling, and martial arts.” Mark Hewitt author of Catch Wrestling and Catch Wrestling Round 2
“This book is excellent. I have recommended it to alot of people to read.” Kamal Shalorus olympic wrestler, European ADCC champion, undefeated WEC fighter
“I love the book and wish you guys lots of luck man I really do.” Neil Melanson, Randy Couture’s grappling instructor at Xtreme Couture Las Vegas
“Erik Paulson is the read deal. I would highly recommend this book to fans and fighters.” Gene Lebell
“Thank you for honoring the legends of wrestling’s past. Great book.” Charles Sloan, President of Classic Pro Wrestling
“These boys should be commended for helping to tell our story.” Frank Cain, one of America’s original mixed martial arts fighters and take on all comers carnival wrestler.
Mine is ordered. Looking forward to this book. And further instructionals.
It’s about time somebody wrote a book like this! Can’t wait to read it!
Mine is ordered, Lord willing this book will open peoples eyes to the heretige of wrestling. And just how much it has paved the way.
I just found out about this book from Kamal’s facebook. Looks pretty cool. As a wrestler I want to get it just to see how much I don’t know about history.
I’m on page 60 something, I adore this book, though i’ve spotted a few typos. Oh well, it happens with all books.
I’m about 3/4 way through the book and I LOVE IT! Thank you guys so much for writing a book like this! There are soooo many books about bjj’s influence on mma and to read a book like this it’s is so great for American wrestlers! Reading about these old time catch wrestlers is my favorite part of the book. These guys are national treasures.
got mine!!! great book really gives perspective on grappling and how there is nothing new under the sun…sory Erik seems we forgot our ancestors till you brought this to light.
Once again Erik Paulson gives us tremendous depth and inspiration through his NEW book. This was an amazing read and it not only gave me a greater understanding of the history of catch wrestling, but it also helped me to put into perspective the connection between BJJ and submission wrestling! Very well written and researched, very well documented. I highly recommend this book!
FIVE STARS *****