May 1, 2008
The phenomenon known as Lucha Libre (Spanish for “free fight”) began in Mexico in 1933 when Salvador Lutteroth founded Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Libre, giving Mexican wrestlers a spot for prominence.
With their ubiquitous multicolored masks and high-flying moves, luchadores captivated fans worldwide. In recent years, the sport has grown into a global pop-culture phenomenon evidenced by the Hollywood blockbuster Nacho Libre, starring Jack Black.
The theatrical sport has even made its way onto our own city streets with a recent match on Zaragosa Avenue. Several EPMG photographers attended the event and prove that whether you’re rooting for the rudos or tocnicos, Lucha Libre is a knock-out good time!
Click on each photographer to see more of their work: Mark Paulda, Henry Delgado, Julie Hammink and Rebecca Reza.
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Editor's Note: The article and accompanying images originally appeared in the May 2008 edition of El Paso Magazine.