In the documentary Wrestling With Trump, satirist Munya Chawawa steps into the ring to deliver an almighty smackdown to Donald Trump's obsession with mimicking the world of WrestleMania. The result is a bodyslam of a film that is both punchy and weirdly uplifting.
Chawawa, a lifelong wrestling fan, argues that Trump and his team's campaigns and style of government borrow heavily from the playbook of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), founded by Vince McMahon and his estranged wife Linda, now US secretary of education. The documentary examines how Trump uses hyperbole, smack talk, and kayfabe—the pretence that everything is real—to inflame crowds and blur the lines between truth and lies.
Chawawa interviews former Trump campaign adviser Sam Nunberg, who confirms that Trump's love of wrestling informed their approach, particularly its combative storylines. The film also features a chilling encounter with a wrestler known as Progressive Liberal, who has been relentlessly hated for his character, highlighting the unsettling power of kayfabe when taken out of the ring and into politics.
Key Themes
- Hyperbole and Smack Talk: Trump's rhetoric, whether at rallies or in office, mirrors wrestling's exaggerated claims and insults.
- Kayfabe: The suspension of disbelief that allows Trump to present himself as a 'blue collar billionaire' despite his wealth.
- Maga Supporters: Chawawa speaks to fans who accept Trump's contradictions without question, showcasing his ability to warp reality.
The documentary is a passionate and convincing guide to understanding Trump through the lens of professional wrestling, making it a must-watch for those seeking fresh insight into American politics. Wrestling With Trump airs on Channel 4.
