About
Finnish politician and wrestler who served as a Member of the Finnish Parliament from 2003-2007, representing the True Finns party as an independent politician. As a wrestler he was best known for his appearances with Catch Wrestling Association, New Japan Pro-Wrestling and the World Wrestling Federation. His ring name was Ludvig Borga. He is the first fighter from the Nordic countries ever to compete in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Before Fame
He attended primary and secondary school in Espoo, and later a Swedish language school. For two years he studied as an electrician at the Strömberg School of Engineering before dropping out. He pursued athletics from a young age and won a silver medal at the Finnish Bodybuilding Championship at the age of 17.
Trivia
Other ring names included The Viking and Finland Hellraiser Thor. He competed on Gladiaattorit, the Finnish version of the TV game show Gladiators, using the pseudonym Viikinki. He is also a professional boxer who held the Finnish and American heavyweight title. Other professions he has held include fishmonger, singer and stuntman.
Family Life
He and his brother were raised by their single mother who was an alcoholic with a destructive lifestyle. His father left the family when he was six months old, making contact with him only a few times throughout his life. Growing up he considered his brother, five years his elder, to be his only friend.
Associated With
While living in the US for 15 years, he worked as a body guard for the music group Cheap Trick, which features guitarist Robin Zander. During his political career he caused controversy when he mistakenly called President Tarja Halonen a lesbian, later apologizing.
