AUGUSTA – Maine Gov. Angus King kept his word Thursday and posed on the State House steps wearing a Minnesota Golden Gophers hockey jersey – then iced his appearance with a surprise twist.

“It isn’t easy for me, but I’m a man of honor and I honor my obligations,” said King, who made a wager with fellow independent Gov. Jesse Ventura over last weekend’s NCAA national hockey championship game. Minnesota beat Maine 4-3 in overtime.

Maine’s governor showed up in the maroon, white and gold Minnesota jersey, but he brought along a life-size cardboard cutout of Ventura, dressed in a two-tone blue Maine Black Bears jersey.

For effect, King hoisted the Ventura cutout over his head, pro-wrestler style.

Ventura’s office found King’s actions amusing.

“It’s great that independent governors can show the states how to have some fun amid all the difficult decisions they have to make as a result of the recession,” said Ventura spokesman John Wodele.

King said Maine showed “tremendous heart” in the loss and offered his congratulations to Ventura and his fellow Minnesotans. Ventura has said he will display the Gophers jersey, signed by King, in his office.