Fair’s Champion Wrestler Can Bear Stress and Strain, Judge Says
Animal lovers trying to protect Victor the Rasslin’ Bear from his human competition have been pinned to the mat by a judge’s ruling that the 650-pound bruin can take care of himself.
The Bergen County prosecutor’s office and county Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said Friday they lost their bid to prevent Victor from participating in wrestling matches at the Meadowlands Fair in East Rutherford.
Officials said that in the matches, between Victor and volunteers from the audience, the bear was taunted and subjected to maltreatment.
But Victor--all 8 feet, 3 inches of him--reportedly has never lost to a human opponent in more than 50,000 matches over 23 years.
“The show may go on,” said Superior Court Judge David B. Follender, clearing the way for Victor to continue his 15-minute performances three times a day.
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