Mastering the Winn Dixie Wrestling Move

The Winn Dixie is a highly effective wrestling counter used when an opponent attempts a single-leg takedown. Popularized by Jason Nolf, this move allows the defender to counter the shot, control their opponent, and transition into a dominant position. This step-by-step guide will break down the technique, key positioning details, and troubleshooting strategies to ensure successful execution.

Step 1: Recognizing the Opponent’s Shot

Identify the Attack:

1. Watch for the Single-Leg Attempt:

   • The opponent steps in and secures a grip around one of your legs.

   • They are looking to elevate or drive through for the takedown.

2. Positioning Your Hips and Base:

   • Maintain a strong stance to prevent immediate off-balancing.

   • Do not allow the opponent to pull your leg too high—keep weight distributed properly.

Common Mistakes:

• Panicking and hopping on one leg, making it easier for the opponent to finish the takedown.

• Not establishing head and hand control, allowing the opponent to improve their grip.

• Leaning too far forward, which makes you vulnerable to additional setups.

Step 2: Establishing the Crossface

Hand and Arm Positioning:

1. Thread Your Arm Across Their Face:

   • Use the arm opposite to the leg they attacked to create a crossface.

   • Aim for the jawline, cheekbone, or forehead to turn their head away.

2. Grip Near Their Opposite Shoulder or Arm:

   • Reach across their body and hook their far triceps, shoulder, or bicep.

   • The tighter your grip, the harder it is for them to finish their shot.

Key Details for a Strong Crossface:

• Apply downward pressure to disrupt their posture.

• Turn their chin away from their attack, making it difficult to complete the takedown.

• Drive into their shoulder while maintaining pressure on their head.

Common Mistakes:

• Not driving into the crossface, allowing the opponent to keep head position.

• Using the wrong arm for the crossface, making the move weaker.

• Failing to control the far arm, letting them adjust or switch to a double-leg attempt.

Step 3: Controlling the Far Hip

Hand Placement and Body Position:

1. Use Your Free Hand to Control Their Hip or Waist:

   • Reach for their far-side hip, waist, or lat muscle to gain leverage.

   • The goal is to lock them in place before initiating the roll.

2. Keep Your Hips Engaged:

   • Do not let them elevate your leg—stay heavy on their back.

   • Keep your knee bent slightly to avoid getting lifted.

Common Mistakes:

• Letting go of the hip before rolling, making the move less effective.

• Not staying heavy, allowing the opponent to switch attacks or adjust.

• Overreaching, losing balance before rolling.

Step 4: Executing the Roll

Using Momentum to Reverse the Position:

1. Drive Off Your Free Leg:

   • Push off the mat with your free leg to generate momentum.

   • Rotate over your near-side shoulder, bringing the opponent with you.

2. Maintain the Crossface and Hip Control:

   • Keep the crossface tight and engaged to ensure they can’t turn back into you.

   • Stay close to their body to avoid giving up space.

3. Roll Smoothly and Land in Control:

   • The goal is to roll through and land on top, securing a dominant position.

   • If done correctly, your opponent should be flat on their back or belly.

Common Mistakes:

• Not committing to the roll, which allows the opponent to recover.

• Rolling too early, before disrupting their base.

• Losing grip on the crossface, allowing them to scramble free.

Step 5: Securing Top Position and Counterattacking

Options After Completing the Winn Dixie:

1. Secure a Front Headlock:

   • If they land face down, control their head and arm.

   • Look to run a go-behind or transition to a cradle.

2. Turn Into a Pinning Combination:

   • If they land on their back, adjust weight to flatten them out.

   • Work toward half nelson, bar arm, or arm bundle setups.

3. Transition to a Leg Ride:

   • If they remain on all fours, hook in a leg ride and apply pressure.

   • Keep them extended and work toward a breakdown.

Common Mistakes:

• Not staying tight after the roll, allowing the opponent to escape.

• Letting up pressure, giving them a chance to scramble.

• Failing to anticipate their next move, resulting in lost control.

The Winn Dixie is an excellent counter move against single-leg takedowns, allowing wrestlers to neutralize attacks, reverse position, and score points. By focusing on proper crossface application, hip control, and a smooth roll, wrestlers can consistently execute this technique effectively.

Drilling Focus:

• Repetition Work: Drill the move from both sides to ensure versatility.

• Live Situational Drills: Have training partners shoot different types of single-leg variations to improve reaction time.

• Chain Wrestling Integration: Transition from the roll into top control moves, ensuring a strong finish.