Aerial techniques are used in professional wrestling to show off the speed and agility of a wrestler. These moves are mainly done by smaller quicker wrestlers who are unable to do most of the power moves. There is a wide variety of aerial techniques in pro wrestling. Many moves are known by several different names. Professional wrestlers frequently give their "finishers" (signature moves that usually result in a win) new names. Occasionally these names become popular and are used regardless of the wrestler performing the technique.
Due to injuries being caused by these high risk moves, many promotions ban the use of some maneuvers, or at least tell wrestlers to "tone down" their use. During 2005, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) allegedly banned the use of the shooting star press and 450° splash for fear of injury. However, WWE commentator and former executive Jim Ross stated in 2006 that he was unaware of such a policy.
Moves are listed under general categories whenever possible.
