Greetings grapple fans... wrestling is back in Peterborough

With bone-crunching manoeuvres, and flamboyant outfits, professional wrestling is a sensationalized form of performance art with a universal appeal like no other.

But despite once being a staple of popular, terrestrial channels in the UK, British wrestling has since tapped out to the heightened surrealism and bravado of 
the global WWE, which has reigned for more than 60 years and launched some of the most celebrated wrestlers of all time.

LDN Wrestling, however, a touring company that will be rolling into the the city on February 21, aims to challenge the yanks’ dominance and reinstate the demand for British wrestling.

Thirty four -year-old Sanjay Bagga, who left university after just 12 weeks to become a wrestling promoter, founded the group in 2004, after growing frustrated with the lack of affordable and thrilling entertainment provided to UK fans of the sport.

He said: ‘‘Wrestling and this great country go hand in hand, it is in our culture and even used to outdraw the FA Cup Final.

‘‘But British wrestling took a big knock when it got taken off the TV in the 1980s, so I felt there was a gap in the market for a wrestling event with affordable prices.

‘‘The WWE events are great, but it can end up working out at about £500 per person for a day.’’

After a successful 17 years, and with plans to bulldoze through another 200 shows across Europe, LDN Wrestling is definitely on its way to helping Britain re-stake its claim on the wrestling world. Even if it still has to cater to fans wanting the exaggerated personalities of wrestlers from across the pond.

Sanjay added: ‘‘Wrestling is coming back bigger than ever in Britain, but the modern generation only know Hulk Hogan or The Rock now.

‘‘So we have five American wrestlers as well and everyone always goes home happy when we combine the American and British wrestlers.’’

Top of the bill leading the British troops is British Heavyweight Champion Alan Lee Travis, taking on Team America led by Texican Cam Cole assisted by Will Allday and the American tag champions InZanley Rude.

The action starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £18 for adults, £15 for children or a family of 4 for £55 from www.LDNwrestling.com or by calling the box ofice on 01733 852 992.