Pit and power

Heralding a new era in sports entertainment in India, three of TNA’s wrestling stars make some big announcements and share their experience in the platform

Rebel makes a bold statement

Bringing the combination of wrestling and entertainment closer home, Total Non-stop Action’s (TNA) Impact Wrestling television programme will now see an Indian connect. Three of TNA’s Impact stars Knockout Rebel, Ethan Carter III and India’s very own Mahabali Shera were in the city recently to usher TNA’s arrival in India and prepare the ground for the next Indian wrestling star in the show.

“We are on the hunt for a wrestling mega star from India who will rock the wrestling platform,” says Mahabali. Apart from that, the stars also announced that the popular wrestling televised phenomenon will be broadcast from Mumbai on December 4 as an exclusive live event.

Amanpreet Singh, who goes by the popular ring name Mahabali Shera is the Indian Ring Ka King World Heavyweight Champion. A sincere devotee of

Bajrangi , from whom he takes his ring name, the wrestler dreams of bringing more Indian wrestlers to the fore. Delighted about TNA’s arrival in India, he says: “Wrestling is a great sport and India has a rich tradition of wrestling. This is a great platform for youngsters in the country to showcase their talent.”

On what they are looking for in the next Indian star, Rebel explains: “We are looking for someone who has skill, charisma and has the

je ne sais quoi ( something special).” Ethan adds: “The person requires three things – discipline, uniqueness in attitude and an emotive connect with the audience.” Shera sums up: “The star needs to be passionate about wrestling, fearless and have a strong will to bring recognition to our country. Above all, he should be respectful - of himself, his peers and his family.”

Rebel, whose real name is Tenea Brooks, was excited to be in India and flaunted her henna and bangles saying: “The reception in India has been so warm and loving.” Starting off as a cheerleader, Rebel moved on to wrestling because she realised she didn’t want to be on the sidelines anymore. “I wanted to get in there and kick some booty!”

Although wrestling is an entertaining sport for the audience, wrestlers have repercussions beyond the ring. Rebel opens up about the injuries one is challenged with. “Wrestlers have to take care of their bodies, work out and have a balanced diet. I regularly take Epsom Salt baths to heal from the injuries. However, sometimes I need to go to the chiropractic to get adjusted.”

Micheal Hutter, who goes by the name Ethan Carter III, says: “I loved wrestling as a child. And as a teenager, it was something I wanted to pursue.

It took a while for me to establish myself but I’m finally at a good point in my career. I’m very thankful to TNA for giving me this opportunity.”

Shera sums up with a message to aspiring wrestlers and Indians alike.

“Take care of your health. People of all age groups must work out at least an hour daily. Above all, stay away from drugs. If a friend offers you drugs, he is not your friend.”