Parts of a Wrestling Ring

A professional wrestling ring may look like just a four-sided, roped-off stage, but the construction and use of a ring requires multiple parts that are used both for show and for safety.

  1. Frame

    • A basic metal frame is the first step to a wrestling ring. Steel pipes are integrated together to form a square pattern that makes up the base. Four thick corners are all that up hold the ring.

    Matting

    • The wrestling canvas is a thin, matted layer that usually sits over a layer of plywood. The matting is made of a mix of plastic and cotton layers and sometimes has decals printed across the center of the ring.

    Ropes

    • Three heavy-duty ring ropes are set up around the parameter of the ring. The ropes are wrapped in colored duct tape to hold them together and to prevent rope burn on active wrestlers.

    Turnbuckles

    • When each ring rope reaches a corner, it is hooked and looped through a metal turnbuckle. Those turnbuckles are usually covered with turnbuckle covers and turnbuckle pads to prevent wrestler damage.

    Extras

    • Aprons are often sewn onto the ring canvas so that spectators cannot see underneath the ring. Specialized decals may be attached to each turnbuckle pad and wrapped around the turnbuckle pole itself. Steel steps can be added to the corners of the ring for wrestler and weapon use.