King of the Arena

Almost half of Senegal’s population lives below the poverty line, but young men like Domou Walo are fighting for a better life. In the country’s capital of Dakar, Walo trains for La lutte or Laamb, Senegal’s traditional form of wrestling. The sport has been practiced since the 14th century and includes elements of mysticism. Top contenders regularly compete for prestige and six figure prizes. Filmmaker Tom Sweetland captures the athleticism, ritual, violence, and brotherhood that underpins the sport, where the young challengers train to improve their family’s lot in a country where many survive on an average income of only $10 a day.