Dwarf wrestling event defends show after calls for it to be cancelled

A dwarf wrestling event due to take place in Wales has defended its shows after being hit with criticism.

The Extreme Dwarfanators Wrestling shows are due to be held in Swansea and Cardiff in October and feature people with dwarfism fighting each other.

The show's website describes the event as a "mix of showmanship, hustle, and pure entertainment."

But one charity has compared it to a "freak show" claiming such shows will make violence against people of restricted growth more likely and has called for the events to be cancelled.

The company, which has been running the tours for ten years, says the shows can draw audiences anywhere from 500 to 3,000. It told ITV News the aim of the event is to "change perception of people with disabilities".

It added it is not a derogatory or degrading show and the wrestlers can earn above-average wages of between $35,000 and $50,000 per year.

Venues due to host the event Leicester and Ferndown, near Bournemouth, have already cancelled performances.

The company said it is "not a circus but a passion" and that dwarf wrestlers have become role models in the community.

It added its wrestlers are "highly trained athletes" who have "trained hard to be perfect in the game".