The World's Most Tricksy-est Trip Takedown (by Mike Poeta)

 

We have been ridiculously lucky as ILLINI fans to see our heroes execute some of the most amazing takedowns on the planet. Mike Poeta was known for his slickness. In the video below, you can see why. I call this one "The World's Most Tricksy-est Trip Takedown" because of a number of factors. 

First, it is a trip or footsweep. That alone merits attention. These types of moves appear less frequently than they should in wrestling matches, so when you see one, it stands out. 

Second, the opponent was worthy. This wasn't some schlub that Poeta hit the move on. This was Trent Paulson, a three-time NCAA All-American and one-time National Champion. Additionally, after college, Paulson made a number of National Teams, and he made the World Team the year before this match with Poeta. 

Third, the stakes. This was sweaty palms time, as Mike Poeta wanted to represent the USA at the World Cup in Moscow. He had to get through this strong opponent--a former World Team member--just to be able to wrestle Paulson's twin brother, Travis, who was the final boss. One false move and you go home. 

Fourth, the immediate situation. [SPOILERS] In the video you see Poeta attacking, and for his efforts, Paulson puts him in a tight front headlock. Now, you know what you're thinking when you've got somebody in a front headlock: Time to Punish this Dude! You may get a takedown; the least you accomplish is make the guy support your weight and drain 80% of his life force.  

And he can't respawn! 

But, WHAM! The tables were turned in this case. Suddenly. Precisely. Beautifully. 

The ending of this story was a happy one. Poeta beat Trent and then would beat the final boss and make that trip to Moscow to represent the United States in the World Cup. If you want to see the original video from which this snippet was taken, it is below. One of the benefits of that is hearing Jason Byrant's reaction to that magical move.

Video credit: USA Wrestling; photo credit: patch.com.