Why Exactly Was The Reverse Seoi Nage Banned?
In one of the most controversial rules changes within the past 10 years, at the end of 2021 the IJF decided to ban the reverse seoi nage. Now, instead of scoring an ippon for a clean throw, judoka will be given a shido instead.
Whilst a press release has not been given on exactly why the reverse seoi nage has been banned, whispers have leaked from the IJF within the past 6 months. A concrete conclusion cannot be reached, but it’s rumored that the reverse seoi nage was banned due to its concussion risk. Knockouts are uncommon in judo but do happen due to uncontrolled landings. As the video shows below, uke is often being faceplanted before they can roll onto their backs.
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Statistics On Injuries
The IJF has not released any statistics on head injuries related to the reverse seoi nage – most likely due to a possible media overreaction if results were shown.
There is no doubt that people have been knocked out from the reverse seoi nage, but then again this could be said for so many other judo throws. It is difficult for people to agree or disagree with the decisions of the IJF since there is no readily available data on concussions or spinal injuries based on each throw. Therefore, as throws cannot be compared, casual fans, competitors, and anyone else without the statistics cannot make a logical decision.
Are Concussions Really The Worst Judo Injury?
Brain injuries can be very dangerous. The main risk of concussion is when it is missed and symptoms begin to worsen. Of course, nobody wants to be concussed, but if treated properly, they are not the worst judo injury. Concussions are disastrous if not treated properly, but after a trip to hospital and resting, until the injury is healed, they are relatively fast to heal.
Knee injuries on the other hand can be life-changing, even when treated. As the statistics show, the regular seoi nage can cause a lot of damage to the knee – but is not banned.
Even in modern day, judoka may not fully recover if they need reconstructive surgery to either the ACL or LCL. So whilst a concussion may seem scary at the time and you will have to rest until the brain has fully healed, it is not anywhere near as slow recovery when compared to a knee ligament injury.
Watering Down Judo For Adults To Appease Casuals
Overall, judoka were generally unhappy to see the reverse seoi nage banned. Athletes who used the reverse seoi nage in their arsenal were the most penalized since the countless hours spent drilling became worthless overnight.
Banning overly dangerous techniques is nothing new. The IJF have already banned throws and submissions which result in a high amount of injuries such as the notorious kani basami.
However, professional judoka are grouped in with all other judoka following the kodokan ruleset. A male athlete in his prime years has to follow the same rules as an 11 year old training once per week. This seems a little strange for a professional sport, especially since judo athletes are well aware of the risks and injuries they can sustain whilst throwing or being thrown.
