Wrestling With Satan

Can a Christian find salvation with the help of XL-sized men in tights who pummel each other with folding chairs? That is the premise behind the Christian Wrestling Federation, a Texas-based ministry/sports entertainment operation that offers independent professional wrestling bouts punctuated with evangelical Christian sermons by the grapplers in the ring. This fascinating documentary by Paul Aldridge and Tom Borden follows the federation from 2000 through 2006, detailing a number of serene high points (most notably the gathering of an exuberant lineup of wrestlers) and some harrowing low points (including repeated obstacles in financing the endeavor, and personality conflicts that split federation founder Rob Vaughn from several of his most popular athletes). While Vaughn and his team are on somewhat shaky theological ground when it comes to using biblical passages to justify spiritual wrestling, it's hard not to be impressed with the distinctive character and unmistakable sincerity of their proselytizing efforts. And to its credit, this wrestling league has none of the vulgarity that has marred Vince McMahon's WWE extravaganzas for many years. Ultimately, the real power and glory here belongs to the wrestlers, who are some of the most charismatic and talented athletes in the under-the-radar world of independent wrestling. Highly recommended. (P. Hall)