MEIZHOU (China), Sept 23 — At 17, Wang Tao left home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler, fully aware of the challenges in China’s passionate yet underdeveloped wrestling scene. Years later, after facing family disapproval, juggling various side jobs, and enduring countless hours of intense training, he has earned the title of China’s “Belt and Road Champion.” However, the journey remains tough.*

Despite a potentially promising domestic market, the Chinese pro wrestling community has struggled for decades to gain recognition and achieve financial stability. 

“I’ve taken on all sorts of jobs because it’s tough to make a living solely from wrestling,” Wang shared. “But I’ve never given up on my dream of raising awareness for Chinese wrestling.”

Wrestling, a blend of sport and entertainment, is often seen as an American spectacle, best represented by the powerhouse World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). It combines intense athleticism with dramatic, theatrical performances.

Wang became hooked on wrestling after watching the Hollywood film The Wrestler. He left high school to train with fellow aspiring athletes in northern China. 

“I tried to explain my passion to my family, but they didn’t understand or support my decision,” he recalled. Although his family has since come around, they still hope he finds a “normal job.” 

Wang’s shamanic persona even faced a humorous moment when he was tossed onto tables and chairs by China’s first pro wrestler, The Slam.

American wrestler Knickle Sloane noted that the “grind of independent wrestling” brought back memories of his childhood, expressing optimism about the potential market for Chinese wrestling.

For now, Gomez, another wrestler, emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities: “I believe more people should be able to make a living doing what they excel at.