Naval officer once in the hold for fighting (6)

I believe the answer is:

nelson

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'hold for fighting' is the definition.
'nelson' can be an answer for 'hold' (wrestling hold). I'm unsure of the 'for fighting' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nelson that I've seen before include "Lady Hamilton's navy lover" , "'England expects' admiral" , "Victorious flag officer" , "Naval hero, d. 21 October 1805" , "Admiral on a column" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app