Armwrestling has seen a resurgence in popularity over the course of the 2020’s, and the Ultimate Armwrestling League (UAL) is considered by many to be the premiere organization for the sport. One of the UAL’s signature events is their annual Olympia event, which will be a big part of the 2026 World Fitness Expo in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 25th and 26th.
Armwrestling is one of those events that make people at the Olympia stop and watch. The struggle of two athletes in a matchup of will and strength captivates the audience throughout the entire weekend, and the UAL has proclaimed that more of the same will be presented in 2026.
The UAL shared on Instagram, “The Olympia Ultimate Armwrestling Championships will feature Veteran, Amateur, and Celebrity competitors showcasing multiple divisions and disciplines.”
What Are the Official UAL Armwrestling Rules at the 2026 Olympia?
These competitions will feature men and women as well as Masters and amateur contests. When they lock up, competitors must grip palm-to-palm with the top knuckles of their thumbs completely visible. Wrists must start straight and flat, not curled or buckled. If the athletes can’t agree on grip, the referee will set the grip for them.
The matchup begins on the referee’s command. Once the match begins, full body movement is legal. Pullers can drop their body weight, lean, and use various techniques like the “Top Roll” or “Hook.” A victory is achieved by a “pin,” forcing any part of the opponent’s natural wrist, hand, or fingers to touch the designated touch pad or break its parallel plane.
There are also fouls and penalties, including elbow coming up, intentionally releasing the grip due to losing, and false starts. If the athletes lose their grip due to slipping, a one-inch nylon strap can be applied by the referee. The athlete that wins two out of three rounds wins the match.
What Weight Classes Are Featured at the 2026 UAL Olympia Tournament?
- OPEN / AMATEUR: 145 / 165 / 185 / 205 / 232 / 233+
- MASTERS: 165 / 185 / 205 / 206+
- LADIES: 154 / 155+
Why Is Jordan Sill vs. Ryan Ballesteros 2 a Must-Watch Rematch?
One matchup that many fans are excited to see is Jordan Sill versus Ryan Ballesteros. Sill is a seasoned veteran who rarely loses his cool in a matchup, whereas the powerhouse Ballesteros, the 12th ranked armwrestler in the country, can seemingly will himself to a win when all seems lost. This will be the second matchup between the two Americans. Sill defeated Ballesteros 3-0 in a best of five event in April 2025.
The roster of athletes competing in the UAL Olympia event has yet to be released as of this writing. To learn more about UAL and stay up to date on the UAL event, follow them on Instagram.
Get your tickets to the Olympia World Fitness Expo at mrolympia.com.