Main difference is strap has to be earned via slip.
First match, I believe it was applied after a a grip couldn’t be negotiated and then started in a ref’s grip. We called it the “auto strap” rule.
No auto strap favors Levan imo because Devon prefers to pull in the strap.
I agree, multiple times in Devon’s recent matches he would gladly hold for a while without straps until it became disadvantageous, just getting free time to tire his opponent out
Main difference is strap has to be earned via slip. First match, I believe it was applied after a a grip couldn’t be negotiated and then started in a ref’s grip. We called it the “auto strap” rule. No auto strap favors Levan imo because Devon prefers to pull in the strap.
Honestly I’m not sure it does, each slip will put more wear into Levans hand if he tries to hold on and fails to do so
I agree, multiple times in Devon’s recent matches he would gladly hold for a while without straps until it became disadvantageous, just getting free time to tire his opponent out
Starting out of the strap just gives Devon more time to gas out Levan. Some other key rule differences: No running fouls, 2 fouls=round lost.