World Wrestling Federation Superstars
Pearl, 12.05am
After spending a few restless nights watching Kurt Angle demonstrate the 'ankle lock' on arch-nemesis Stone Cold Steve Austin (above) in preparation for their approaching Summer Slam match, I found myself wondering why this programme isn't called Don't Try This At Home.
Or, better yet, Spandex-wearing Hulks Who Pretend To Wrestle. Then I realised just how big the art of pretend wrestling is. Consider this: on one occasion, both David Arquette and Arnold Schwarzenegger were in the audience; The Rock is now more famous for his role in The Mummy Returns than for his arched eyebrow; and superstars such as Chynna, Scotty 2 Hotty and Mike Foley are being enlisted in a literacy campaign aimed at American children. But wait, there's more. An academy exists where young boys and girls are introduced by their heroes to the rigours of pretend wrestling. Some tough it out, most drop out, nursing their bruises and bruised egos. So what's all the fuss about? After listening to The Rock and Booker T talk trash to each other and watching Diamond Dallas Page stalk the Undertaker's pneumatic-chested wife, Sara, it's no wonder kids in America don't spend enough time reading books. So go ahead, practise that ankle lock.
Science Frontiers: Pleasure Power
World, 1.20am
