7 p.m.! From the top of the stands, the audience holds their breath. Mute prayers are addressed to the gods of the arena, carried by the traditional songs of Serer singers. The pressure is at its height and in the heart of the arena, two black-skinned behemoths, covered in gris-gris, size each other up while waiting for the referee's whistle.

It's Sunday, Senegalese wrestling match day.

Senegalese wrestling is an important element in certain ethnic groups in Senegal, due to its both mystical and entertaining character.

For example, among the Serer and Diola people, tournaments called “mbapatt” mark the end of wintering and celebrate the abundance of the harvest.

These games bring together the champions of several villages and the winners are rewarded with food, livestock or other things.

All around this sport revolve rites of a mystical nature which are carried out to protect against spiritual attacks initially, and to ensure victory.

Who says wrestling therefore says folklore. The wrestlers enter the arena escorted by a whole delegation loaded with mystical paraphernalia. Potions, talismans and other spells are in one camp as in the other in order to protect themselves, or to intimidate the opponent.

A “bàkk” animation follows where the wrestler and his entourage form formation in front of the drum major who, to the rhythm of the tom-tom, will sing the exploits of the fighter. He will not hesitate to perform dance steps and show off his bulging muscles to unleash the crowd of spectators.

Today, what was considered a test of courage and skill has become a professionalized combat sport including elements of boxing, hence the name striking wrestling.

The CNG is the regulatory body of the discipline and the regulations indicate that there is victory in the event of one of the wrestlers falling on the head, buttocks or back; of 4 supports (two hands and two knees) or by KO.

As a result of these regulations, several wrestling schools are organized to train young people to become wrestlers, “mbër” in Wolof.

This national sport is very popular in Senegal because of its traditional value.

Attending a Senegalese wrestling match will undoubtedly allow you to experience Senegalese authenticity and connect to a culture in all its splendor.