Iranian wrestling, also known as koshti in Persian, has a very long tradition and history in Iran. It has been practiced since the ancient times in different parts of greater Iran in various styles among which Pahlavani wrestling is the most popular. The Iranian wrestling styles can be divided into two major categories; in one category lifting and throwing the opponent is considered victory, whereas in the other category bringing part or all of the opponent's back, the knee, or the arm to the ground is considered victory.
Notable styles of this wrestling include: