Magical warriors of Dakar
Known locally as ‘la lutte traditionelle’, Senegalese wrestling is the country's most popular sport. It is a unique discipline. Two contestants face off inside a wide ring and grapple until one of them is thrown onto his back. Punching is allowed and fights tend to last anywhere between a few seconds and twenty minutes. With its fancy stadiums and high-level TV deals, the sport combines modernity with tradition, especially in the form of marabous, mystical healers who accompany the fighters and use magical concoctions to help them overcome their opponents. For the winners await pride, fame, and fast track out of poverty.
Known locally as ‘la lutte traditionelle’, Senegalese wrestling is the country's most popular sport. It is a unique discipline. Two contestants face off inside a wide ring and grapple until one of them is thrown onto his back. Punching is allowed and fights tend to last anywhere between a few seconds and twenty minutes. With its fancy stadiums and high-level TV deals, the sport combines modernity with tradition, especially in the form of marabous, mystical healers who accompany the fighters and use magical concoctions to help them overcome their opponents. For the winners await pride, fame, and fast track out of poverty.