The “butt drag,” often referred to as an “oil check,” is a controversial yet legitimate move in wrestling. For those unfamiliar, an “oil check” involves inserting one or more fingers into an opponent’s buttocks to gain a positional advantage. This move, while contentious, is not uncommon in wrestling circles.
The Jerome Hunt Case
The legality and morality of the “oil check” were thrust into the spotlight in a high-profile case involving a seventeen-year-old wrestler, Jerome Hunt. Hunt faced 21 counts of rape and attempted rape for repeated ‘oil checks’ during wrestling practice. His lawyer, Mike Butler, defended Hunt by claiming that the complaints arose from fellow Parker wrestlers who were simply on the receiving end of a legitimate wrestling maneuver.
The Move in BJJ
The IBJJF does not explicitly list the “oil check” as illegal in their rulebook. Nevertheless, the IBJJF rules do prohibit techniques that apply pressure to the genitals, and this provision can be interpreted to cover the “oil check” move. While not explicitly banned, such actions are generally frowned upon and can be seen as unsportsmanlike conduct, potentially leading to penalties or disqualification by the referee who oversees the match.
This grey area of legality was exemplified in a BJJ tournament in Russia, where a particularly dramatic instance of the move occurred.
In this tournament, the recipient of the “oil check” panicked and tapped out when fingers were inserted into his buttocks from the North-South position at 1:20. The move not only led to his immediate submission but also left him visibly embarrassed.
Response from the Practitioner
The practitioner who executed the “oil check,” Alexander F., faced significant criticism for his actions. In response, Alexander stated:
“Show me in the rules where it’s said that this move is illegal. Now it’s new school of BJJ!”
The Debate
The use of the “oil check” raises significant ethical and competitive questions within the wrestling and BJJ communities. Proponents argue that it is a legitimate technique that can provide a crucial advantage in a match. Detractors, however, view it as an invasion of personal boundaries and an unsportsmanlike tactic that has no place in competitive sports.
The “oil check” remains a polarizing technique. While it is considered legal in both wrestling and BJJ, its ethical implications continue to spark debate. As the sport evolves, so too will the discussions around the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in the quest for victory. For now, athletes and coaches must navigate the fine line between competitive advantage and respect for their opponents.
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