Passion, honor and mystery; the ammunition of a Luchador.

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         Lucha style fighting thrives in today’s pop culture. Colorful masks, tight spandex and risky high-flying attacks give Lucha Lebre an exhilarating appeal. In English the term translates to “free fight.”

         The Mexican Revolution sparked the birth of this new fighting style. It showcased top notch violence with minimal regulations. Salvador Gonzalez is known as the “Father of Lucha Libre.” He first discovered the sport on a trip to El Paso and was immediately intrigued. He introduced the practice to his people in Mexico where it flourished. Later, Gonzalez partnered with Francisco Ahumada to bring the Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Lebre (EMLL) into business. The EMLL has evolved and is now the “the longest running active professional promotion company in the world”(Lucha, Maska.)

        The use of masks did not become popular until El Santo entered the ring. El Santo was recognized in Mexico after winning an eight-man Battle Royal match. He continued to compete for nearly 50 years and is a symbol of justice. El Santo died in 1984 and was buried in his signature metallic silver mask.

      Today, masks are worn by fighters to articulate a persona in the ring. Each fighter has a distinct identity and an unquenchable thirst for victory. Aztec heritage has influenced the decoration of masks. In early times, masks depicted designs of animals and ancient heroes or gods. The mask is used as a tool to inspire character and strength. Colors and designs are symbolic of emotion and personality. Removing the mask is considered a dishonor and is only done when a fighter retires or loses a match.

      Lucha wrestlers are known for their small physiques, acrobatic abilities, speed and aerial maneuvers. Most Lucha wrestlers do not use their real name. They create a performance name to veil their identity. Mexican wrestling is an art. It showcases theatrical grappling and technical skill. Popular performers include Blue Demon, Rey Mysterio, Mil Mascaras, Eddie Guerrero and many others. Some Luchadors are drawn to the ring through family history and inherit the mask and title of their predecessor. Signature Luchador moves include the Diamond Dust inverted face lock, diving elbow drop, Moonsault, body press and Headscissors.

      Lucha Lebre is the second most popular spectator sport in Mexico and has become a spectacle in sports entertainment world-wide. Luchadors are modern day superheroes.

 

                                         

Lucha, Maska. “History of Lucha Libre.” Maskalucha.com, 2009, maskalucha.com/history-of-lucha-libre.aspx.