I did find that interesting, particularly the discussion of "ripping" as a way of setting up submissions (via striking or otherwise causing pain). I don't know much about catch wrestling and I had figured that it focused on the wrestling part (as I think of it as a former H.S. wrestler) and neglected the striking part. [/QUOTE]
That Catch has no striking is a common misconception so you are not alone. Catch is a complete feet to ground art. The approach to striking is as scientific and thorough as the "ground" work. Striking on the ground is also taught but not the wild haymaker uncontrolled punches so often seen in MMA. Catch practitioners are taught how to control the opponent first whether on the feet or on the ground. Proper control on the ground allows the hips to be used to generate punching power and still maintain control. "Ripping" is not a seperate part of Catch but is "baked in" to the techniques. When trained properly the rips are a major part of what is done in drills and practice. You have to toughen up. We trained drills last night and my face, jaw, teeth and ribs are very sore this morning. It is part of it. Wrestling basics are stressed because you wrestle to the hooks and you must always control your opponent.