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Lucha Libre
The popularity of Lucha Libre in the U.S. is exploding. Having already won the loyalty of generations of Latino fans of all ages around the world, Lucha Libre USA is conquering Hispanic and mainstream audiences with its unique spin on the art of wrestling and the Mexican star power of its Luchastars.
Almost a religion in Mexico, where it rivals soccer in attendance, lucha libre boasts a 75-year history of colorful, fun-for-the-whole family entertainment. The tradition of wearing masks harkens back to the Aztecs, and the designs are meant to evoke the power of animals, gods and other ancient heroes, whose identity the luchador then assumes. The mask is considered so sacred that to wager and lose one’s mask in battle is considered a disgrace. More recently, the masks that luchadores wear have become iconic symbols of Latino culture. Contemporary artists like Francisco Delgado and Xavier Garza incorporate wrestler masks in their paintings, and Jarritos recently used them in a colorful ad campaign.
Beyond the mystique of the mask, lucha libre stands apart from American pro wrestling with its strict code of honor, a six-sided ring, and its own set of tag-team rules. And unlike their American pro wrestling counterparts, luchadores rely on their speed and agility and not just power to subdue opponents. Outside the ring, compelling stories are introduced, ranging from battles over a divorce to immigration issues, from money to morality. Inside the ropes, what the Luchastars do is very real – only a trained athlete in superb physical condition could perform their complex moves.
The only company in America dedicated entirely to Mexican wrestling, Lucha Libre USA has created an exclusive world-class roster of Luchastars including Lizmark Jr., Super Nova, Pequeño Halloween, Marco Corleone, Rocky Romero, Shane Helms and Tinieblas Jr. And there are gorgeous Chicastars – female wrestlers – such as Tigresa Caliente and Rebecca Reyes, who have huge followings. Every Saturday morning, fans can watch an original match between some of the biggest Luchastars on YouTube and Facebook. The season just wrapped, and production of the third season has already commenced.
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