Oil wrestling is a national sport and a very serious matter in Turkey. From spring to autumn, more than 40 tournaments take place every year, throughout the country. King of all tournaments, the 647th Kirkpinar wrestling rally was held from July 4th to 6th in the border city Edirne. The city is situated 125 miles from Istanbul, 6 miles from the Bulgarians and just 3 miles from the Greeks, making it the ultimate fantasy spot for those who dream of wrestling men every other night — and will book a flight for next year before they finish reading this sentence.

The short leather trousers you see them wearing is called a kispet and weighs 30lbs, no less. And yes, they use olive oil. Not sure it’s extra-virgin, though. It is also worth noting that a younger wrestler defeating an older one must kiss the older wrestler’s hand.

The winner gains around 100,000 US dollar and receives the Baspehlivan of the Year award. Win three straight years and you get 40 ounces of gold, a 14 carat golden belt and various cash awards (many Turkish companies sponsor the event). Not bad at all if you ask us.

Source: Istanbul Mike