A near-fall (folkstyle) or exposure (international styles) occurs when you turn the opponent so their back is exposed toward the mat — close to a pin but not held. In folkstyle, holding a near-fall earns 2 or 3 points depending on duration; in freestyle, exposing the opponent’s back scores 2 points (or more for big-amplitude throws). Near-falls reward the controlling wrestler for putting the opponent in danger of being pinned, and accumulating them is a major route to points and to setting up the pin itself.
Key points
- Opponent's back exposed toward the mat
- Folkstyle: 2-3 points by duration
- Freestyle: 2+ points for exposure
- Sets up the pin
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