What are WWE rules? Types of wrestling matches, belts, more - ESPN

For generations, both ESPN and the WWE have been giants in sports and entertainment, delivering drama and long-lasting memories to households worldwide.

Now, the two titans are joining forces.

ESPN platforms, including the all new ESPN App, are now the exclusive home to the highest-profile WWE events of the year, including the two-night cultural phenomenon, WrestleMania.

With more eyes set to be on the biggest promotion in professional wrestling, here is an introductory guide to the rules of WWE matches and the championship belts at stake.

What are the rules to win a match?

The general rule to win a professional wrestling match is to pin your opponent to the mat until a referee counts to three or force your opponent to submit with a submission hold or maneuver.

There are exceptions, which we'll get to later in this post.

What are the ways to win a match?

Pin fall: Pinning your opponent's shoulders inside the ring for a referee's three-count.

Submission: Causing your opponent to give up or tap out.

Count out: One of the wrestlers is outside of the ring and the referee completes an uninterrupted 10-count.

Double count out: Both of the wrestlers are outside of the ring and the referee completes an uninterrupted 10-count.

Disqualification: The referee disqualifies one of the wrestlers for breaking the rules.

Double disqualification or no contest: The referee disqualifies both participants for breaking the rules and there is no winner.

Draw: There are situations featuring a double pin fall or both participants tapping out at the same time, which would result in a draw and no winner.

What are the different types of standard WWE matches?

One-on-one: One wrestler vs. one wrestler.

Tag team: Two or more wrestlers vs. two or