Unlock the secrets to reviving lost martial arts and mastering the art of hybrid grappling in this compelling episode featuring Tom Headhunter Higgins—one of the world's top crossover fighters and cultural revivalists.
You’ll discover how Tom’s deep journey from folkstyle wrestling to catch wrestling, Irish collar and elbow, and assorted global styles has fueled his mission to revive ancient traditions that once dominated the sporting world.
With titles in world catch wrestling and a passion for cultural heritage, he shares how these styles influence his fight philosophy, coaching, and the rising movement to reawaken Celtic wrestling roots.We break down:
The spiritual and cultural lineage behind Irish collar and elbow wrestling and how it was nearly lost to history
The critical differences between folkstyle, catch wrestling, jujitsu, and MMA, and how understanding these can elevate your training
Practical tactics on how to incorporate tactical pinning, submission dominance, and cultural influence into modern grappling
The unique psychology of grappling—why stance, control, and mental chaos could be your secret weapons
The cultural challenges and opportunities of reviving traditional styles in Ireland and beyond
This episode is perfect for grapplers, martial arts practitioners, and cultural enthusiasts craving a fresh perspective—and a new way to harness their roots for higher-level success.
Whether you’re a wrestler, jujitsu fighter, or someone passionate about martial history, Tom’s insights challenge the mainstream narrative and inspire a cultural and technical renaissance.
Tom Higgins is a world champion in catch wrestling, a dedicated promoter of Irish collar and elbow, and a cultural ambassador working tirelessly to bring forgotten styles back to life, blending folklore, history, and combat into a unique martial tapestry.
Get ready to think beyond the mat and explore how ancient styles can shape modern combat—because the future of grappling might just lie in its oldest traditions.
Here are Tom Higgins’ social media accounts as well as where you can find him online:
Instagram: @headhunterhiggins
Instagram: @irishcollarandelbow
Instagram: @wrestling_wars
YouTube: @Headhunterhiggins
Facebook: @tom.f.higgins.3
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Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap!
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