The Daily Artist: Unleashing the Undercard: A Salute to Canada’s Self-Proclaimed Finest Athlete, Iron Mike Sharpe!

My friend Eric sent me the featured picture with the caption: "Dream Match: Tiger Mask vs. Iron Mike Sharpe." I can't stop giggling! The contrasting finesse of Tiger Mask's style versus Iron Mike Sharpe's repetitive forearm smash, not to mention that questionable arm brace – it's gold! Just imagine the absurd grunting and yelling from Sharpe in the ring. And who better to call the match than Jesse Ventura? The commentary alone would be a masterpiece.

It’s no secret I paint a lot wrestling-themed art. Wrestling is most definitely my jam! But outside of my studio, my role as a father keeps me pretty busy throughout the day. So when I receive messages on social media, like Eric's mention of Iron Mike Sharpe, it truly makes my day. It's incredible to connect with fellow wrestling enthusiasts and further the conversation.

Eric and I recently discussed Iron Mike Sharpe, and I shared with him that since I was a kid, I've always been captivated by the undercard wrestlers. There was something about them that fascinated me, even though they didn't receive as much attention as the popular stars. In the earlier days of wrestling, they often served as extreme filler, which compelled me to create my own narratives for them. It was a mysterious and cool experience, even if someone like Mike Sharpe never won a match! It made them even more glorious to me.

Auxiliary characters, in wrestling and beyond, have a special allure for me. What's their deal? They appear for mere moments and then vanish. I'm left wanting more. That's why I persistently paint them – to extend their legacy. Deep down, I know I'm not the only one who wants more. They may be bit players, but sometimes I feel like they are the whole show.

Thanks a million for sharing that picture, Eric! If you happen to have any photos of my artwork in your space, I'd be thrilled if you could send them my way. I'd love to see them and write about them. As a token of my gratitude, I offer you a special 35% discount code that you can use on my website.

Keep the wrasslin’ spirit alive! Especially the undercard!

-Sergio Santos