The Ultimate Guide To Watching A Cholitas Wrestling Show

Watching a bunch of hardy, stalwart cholitas do battle in the ring is perhaps the most unique and bizarre tourist attraction in La Paz. Fully kitted out in their traditional garb, these fearsome indigenous women are known for pulling off an array of athletic moves to dominate their male counterparts, whipping the roaring crowd into a frenzy. Here’s everything you need to know about the event.

Who are the cholitas?

Not so long ago, ‘cholita’ was an entirely derogatory term used exclusively to belittle indigenous women for their clothing and their customs. In recent years, however, an indigenous rights revolution, spearheaded by the Aymara president Evo Morales, has restored a sense of pride among these once marginalized people. Cholitas can now don their traditional pollera (skirt), shawl and bowler hat without fear of retribution, both in the streets of La Paz and in the wrestling ring.

Bolivian woman in traditional dress during a Labor Day Parade

The history of Cholitas Wrestling

Although wrestling has been popular in Bolivia since the ’50s, it wasn’t until the mid-2000s that women began to get involved. Around that time, indigenous domestic violence victims started practicing the sport as a way to make friends, relieve stress and regain a sense of empowerment. A rather astute promoter by the name of Juan Mamani realized the untapped potential and, with some clever marketing, brought the pastime into the professional realm.

Audience interaction

The performers and promoters of Cholitas Wrestling have become adept at giving audiences exactly what they want: a fun-filled show that is as outrageous as it is outlandish. For those in the front row, participation should be anticipated. Expect boisterous cholitas to steal kisses from audience members, while drinks and popcorn being thrown between the performers and at the crowd is all just part of the show.

Fighting domestic violence

True to its historical roots, Cholitas Wrestling is a theatrical representation of domestic violence. Matches typically begin with a male villain attacking a female victim, which, despite being completely staged, can still be a troubling and sobering scene to witness. However, to great relief, triumph and much applause, the cholita eventually finds the strength to fight back against her abuser and lays an impressive smack down.

How and where to watch cholitas wrestling

Sports Center

Cholitas Tours and Tickets

The cholitas are most commonly found in Bolivia’s second largest city, El Alto, which geographically lies directly next to La Paz, and essentially acts as an urban extension to the capital. There are a few active venues across the city, but you’ll most frequently find the cholitas knuckling down at El Alto Multifunctional Center, with most shows taking place on Thursdays and Sundays.

Although these athletes may not be as high profile as those of the WWE, they do have a pretty serious repertoire of theatrical stunts. Expect both genders to perform suplexes, body slams and high-flying acrobatic manoeuvres throughout the show as they punch, kick and pull each other’s hair until one goes down for the count. The entire spectacle lasts a marathon four hours, although visitors often come and go as they please. If going solo sounds like a daunting prospect, you can book a guided cholitas experience to witness this incredible cultural spectacle first hand with a local expert.