Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends Season 2 Episode 6 Wrestling
- July 6, 1999
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7.7 (256)
Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends season 2 episode 6, Wrestling, follows the host as he immerses himself in the world of professional wrestling. As an outsider to the sport, Louis seeks to understand what attracts people to it and what drives wrestlers to pursue their careers.
To start, Louis visits The Crusher, a legendary wrestling trainer who has been in the business for decades. The Crusher teaches Louis some of the basic moves and techniques of wrestling, and explains the importance of showmanship and entertainment in the sport. Louis also meets some of The Crusher's trainees, including a group of women who are breaking into the male-dominated world of wrestling.
Next, Louis attends a wrestling convention, where he meets several wrestlers and fans. He interviews a wrestler named New Jack, who is known for his extreme and violent matches. Louis asks New Jack about the dangers of wrestling and whether he has ever hurt himself or other wrestlers in the ring. New Jack defends the sport and argues that the risks are worth it for the thrill of performing and entertaining the audience.
Later, Louis heads to a small-town wrestling federation in Pennsylvania, where he meets a wrestler known as The Blue Meanie. The Blue Meanie invites Louis to participate in a match, and Louis agrees to be his tag team partner. The match is chaotic and unpredictable, with wrestlers jumping off ropes and hitting each other with chairs. Despite his initial hesitation, Louis gets caught up in the excitement and adrenaline of the match.
Finally, Louis spends some time with a wrestler named Perry Saturn, who has recently retired from the sport due to a traumatic brain injury. Perry shares his experiences of being a wrestler and the toll it has taken on his body and mental health. Louis also speaks with Perry's wife, who worries about the long-term effects of his injuries and the lack of support for retired wrestlers.
Throughout the episode, Louis explores the various aspects of wrestling, from the athleticism and spectacle of the matches to the often-dangerous risks that wrestlers take. He speaks with wrestlers, trainers, and fans to gain a deeper understanding of why people are drawn to the sport and what it takes to succeed in it. Ultimately, Louis leaves with a newfound appreciation for the world of wrestling, while also recognizing the challenges and drawbacks that come with it.