Another very early form of wrestling was Shuai Jiao (Chinese Wrestling). Shuai Jiao is the most ancient of all Chinese martial arts reputedly with a history of over 4,000 years! Its first recorded use, in a military engagement, was reportedly in 2,697BC. This was when the Yellow Emperor of China fought against the rebel Chih Yiu and his army. The Emperor’s soldiers used ‘horned helmets’ and gored their opponents while using a primitive form of grappling. This early style of recorded combat was first called Jiao Ti (headbutting with horns).
Throughout the centuries, new techniques emerged, more striking and grappling elements (locks, throws, and holds) were added to the practice. These evolving combat methods eventually became systemized and recorded. In time, Jiao Ti evolved to become Shuai Jiao.