Watch The Wrestlers

The Wrestlers is a documentary series that premiered on Viceland in 2018 and ran until 2019. The show follows Damian Ford Abraham, a journalist and host, as he travels around the world to immerse himself in the global wrestling culture. The series is a fascinating look at the real-life subculture of wrestling, exploring the traditions, personalities and unique experiences that come with it.

Abraham's travels take him to places like Mexico, where he meets the legendary Wrestler, Blue Demon Jr., and learns about the country's longstanding tradition of lucha libre wrestling. He then heads to the Congo, where he meets with wrestlers who perform in front of thousands of fans in improvised rings made of dirt, rocks, and even car tires. He also spends time in Brazil, where he learns about the country's unique brand of wrestling called Vale Tudo, a no-holds-barred form of fighting that is similar to mixed martial arts.

Throughout the series, Abraham explores what motivates wrestlers to perform, the sacrifices they make, and the community that surrounds them. The show's focus on real people and their stories helps to paint a picture of the larger-than-life personalities that are often associated with professional wrestling. The Wrestlers doesn't shy away from the darker side of the industry either, and Abraham also delves into issues like drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, and the systemic exploitation of wrestlers.

One of the most appealing aspects of The Wrestlers is its unflinching portrayal of the sport's global community. The show's global scope is a testament to the fact that wrestling is not just an American pastime, but a beloved art form that has been passed down through generations all over the world. By featuring wrestlers of all ages, genders and nationalities, the series is able to showcase wrestling's diversity and inclusivity without feeling contrived.

The series is also visually stunning, with gorgeous cinematography that brings Abraham's travels to life. The show's camera work is especially effective during the wrestling matches themselves, where the high-octane action is captured in a way that is both thrilling and intimate. The show's use of slow motion and close-ups during key moments also adds to the feeling of visceral excitement that comes with watching wrestling.

Overall, The Wrestlers is a deeply engaging series that provides a thorough and respectful look at wrestling culture from around the world. Abraham's passion for the subject matter is infectious, and his willingness to dive headfirst into the wrestling community is admirable. The show balances a deep respect for the sport's traditions with an eye towards the future, and is a must-watch for anyone who has ever been drawn to the spectacle of professional wrestling.

The Wrestlers is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between May 22, 2019 and on Viceland (US)