HOLYOKE — Professional wrestlers squared off in the ring at William J. Dean Technical High School on Friday night to assist an 11-year-old boy from Holyoke in his battle against illness. The gymnasium buzzed with supporters for the Brave in The Heart event, a charity initiative aimed at supporting Andrew Wilson and the vocational technical […]
HOLYOKE — Professional wrestlers squared off in the ring at William J. Dean Technical High School on Friday night to assist an 11-year-old boy from Holyoke in his battle against illness.
The gymnasium buzzed with supporters for the Brave in The Heart event, a charity initiative aimed at supporting Andrew Wilson and the vocational technical education programs at Dean Tech.
In 2023, Andrew received a diagnosis of a perilous condition known as HLH (Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis), an autoimmune disorder that impairs his immune system, making him susceptible to serious infections.
Additionally, Andrew endures MAS (Macrophage Activation Syndrome), a related condition that leads to excruciating hyperinflammation.
Andrew encountered a severe health emergency that necessitated his transfer to Boston Children’s Hospital owing to multi-organ failure and pneumonia. He spent over 20 days in intensive care, receiving multiple blood and platelet transfusions, daily dialysis, and various tests.
Among Andrew’s favorite ways to spend his time is watching pro wrestling matches. Thus, the wrestling community rallied together to give back the affection he has consistently showcased for the sport.
The thrilling professional wrestling event was backed by Headlocks for Humanity and Legacy is Timeless, featuring raffles and prizes.
Present at the event was John Cena Sr., father of the renowned professional wrestler and actor John Cena, who took on the role of host.
The matches featured bouts between “Top 5 Dead or Alive” Sammy Diaz and “Blue Thunder” Jay Freddie; “Number One” Ichiban vs. Springfield’s Finest “The Heart of the City” Jiggie Sosa; “Big Bacon” Brad Hollister against “The Moonlight Son” Mike Skyros; “The Magnificent” Marcos Santiago alongside Honest Abe confronting “The Dream Crusher” Danny Miles; and “The Spectacular” L.I.T. Yungboy versus “Da Big Boofa” Dezmond Cole.
Additionally, the Test of Strength Tag Team titles were contested as Nolan Pierce and Mark Alexander, forming the Counterstrike team, faced off against Pretty Papi and Dicky Moon, known as Pretty Chill.
An exciting Battle for the Valley All Star Rumble left fans clamoring for more.
