Pathé Boye, popularly known as Big Pato or the 'policeman wrestler,' has transitioned from his career as a wrestler and police officer in Senegal to a new life in the United States. Born in Senegal, Big Pato grew up in Mbour, where his mother raised him. His interest in wrestling was sparked by Serigne Ousmane Dia, also known as Bombardier. Initially, Big Pato had aspirations of becoming a soldier, but his life took a different turn.
Big Pato's journey into wrestling and law enforcement began when he failed his baccalaureate exam in 2006. During his time playing Navétanes, he was encouraged by his uncle, Imam Babacar Ndao, to join the army while pursuing his passion for sports. In 2007, the Police force recruited auxiliary police officers, and Big Pato seized the opportunity. He was assigned to various roles, including the École nationale de police in Dakar, where he received training as a police officer.
As a police officer, Big Pato participated in several significant missions, including a 2013 deployment to Mali as part of the Minusma mission. He served six months in Gao and six months in Kidal. In Senegal, he was involved in various events, such as the Gamou celebrations in Touba, Tivaouane, Kaolack, and Ndiassane, as well as covering sports events like Navétanes and football championships.
Big Pato's wrestling career gained momentum in 2011 when he represented the Police force in a university championship, securing a gold medal and the trophy for 'best wrestler.' This marked the beginning of his recognition as the 'policeman-mbeur.' His family has a background in wrestling, with his maternal grandfather, Aladji Salla Diop, being an accomplished wrestler. Big Pato's mentor, Bombardier de Mbour, played a significant role in shaping his wrestling career.
Big Pato's decision to pursue wrestling while being a police officer was met with skepticism by some, who worried about potential repercussions following a defeat. However, he eventually obtained permission to continue wrestling after a successful gala at the Assane Diouf stadium, where he performed choreographed moves with wrestler Lansana Cissé. His superiors acknowledged his ability to balance his police duties with his passion for wrestling.
Throughout his wrestling career, Big Pato has had notable opponents, including Wouli Wouliwaat, Aladji Mbaye, Tek Choc, and Adama Diouf. He has expressed gratitude to the Police force for their support throughout his career. In 2022, Big Pato relocated to the United States, marking a new chapter in his life. He currently focuses on his business ventures and appreciates the solidarity of the Senegalese community in America.
Big Pato's new life in America has been positive, with him acknowledging the importance of having the right documentation and being part of a close-knit community. He has expressed appreciation for the support of his tuteur and the Senegalese community, who have made him feel at home. As he embarks on this new journey, Big Pato remains grateful for his experiences as a wrestler and police officer in Senegal.
Key points
- Big Pato, a former Senegalese wrestler and police officer, has relocated to the United States, marking a new chapter in his life.
- He has expressed gratitude to the Police force for their support throughout his career.
- Big Pato currently focuses on his business ventures and appreciates the solidarity of the Senegalese community in America.
