Lembit Opik grapples with new career in wrestling ring
Eccentric Lib Dem Lembit Opik's career took another unusual turn – after he made his professional wrestling debut. WITH VIDEO.
http://youtu.be/xEqzNk2qUNU
Eccentric Lib Dem Lembit Opik's career took another unusual turn – after he made his professional wrestling debut.
The former Mid Wales MP, who has already starred in a music video and attempted stand-up comedy since losing his Montgomeryshire seat in the 2010 General Election, entered the wrestling ring on Friday. And he announced he would return for another match over the jubilee weekend.
Playing a spectator, Mr Opik stood up and accused 18-stone professional wrestler Kade Callous of cheating during his bout.
Clad in a grey suit, he squared up to the beefy baddy, who grabbed the shocked-looking 46-year-old by the scruff of the neck before hurling him into the ring.
The politician, who became MP for Montgomeryshire in 1997, then crawled away on all fours before being cornered by the wrestler, who the crowd cheered.
After being 'saved' by good-guy wrestler Iestyn Rees, Mr Opik exchanged insults with his tormentor before challenging him to a tag-team match in June.
Later in the show, Mr Opik was seen to get revenge when he dragged Callous over the top rope on to the floor.
The set-piece was a preview of Mr Opik's first full bout, which will take place on June 2 when he will team up with 'Welsh Dragon' Rees to take on Kade Callous and a secret opponent.
It was part of a sell-out event in Welshpool Town Hall organised by Welsh Wrestling.
The crowd chanted his name as he announced that he would be participating in the tag-team match.
Speaking after the appearance, Mr Opik said: "I imagine I'm the first MP to get inside a professional wrestling ring.
"I'm going to have to do a lot of training, I've got a lot to learn, I can only do my best. Kade Callous might think I'm a wimpy ex-MP but I've had him out of the ring once and I'll do it again on June 2."
Promoter Mike Breeze, who has been working in wrestling for 35 years, said he was excited.
He said: "I know he's pretty fit anyway but he said he's going to be hitting the gym every day for the next six weeks."
