Relay For Cancer Wrestling Fundraiser-Deirdre Ryan Editorial Photography

“The reason behind the wrestling event was just a fundraiser to help out with the overall Relay for Life fundraising. This year so far, we raised over $81,000 and our wrestling show brought in a combined $3000.

We (my team) chomped at the bit trying to come up with a good idea to raise money. It was my wife’s idea to start, and then a few others agreed that it would be a great idea to fundraise to get me back in the wrestling ring.

I used to be a pro wrestler back in 1998 – 2000. I trained at Iron Mike Sharpe’s School of Professional Wrestling in Asbury Park. One of my trainers, and the promoter, The Jersey Hurricane was who I contacted about the show.

He loved the idea, and he met with the wrestlers, who all agreed to donate their time that night. And the ring rental was waved too. So I got back in training mode, going to the gym, as well as, going to his house to train in the ring…to sorta get the rust out.

The kicker…that very few people know…was I injured myself the day before the show. I pulled some stomach muscles…from practicing a maneuver…and I didn’t bail out or shorten the match…as people paid to see me get in the ring.

I was in a lot of pain throughout that match…but it was all worth it…”

-Layton Dodge, Jr. A.K.A. “Battleship”

Coach Layton Dodge Jr. faces his opponent “Dangerous” Dom Devito before the event kicks off with the matches.

Atomic Dog

Coach Layton Dodge Jr.’s son, Jack, doesn’t realize Corey Havoc is right behind him.

Surprise!

Atomic Dog and Corey Havoc.

Corey Havoc having fun with the crowd after getting kicked out of the ring.

 

The Freak, and Spanky.

The Freak and JC The Outpatient.

Abe Yusef

The Patch after “stealing” money from a child as he enters.

The kids cheering for The Orphan and booing The Patch.

The Orphan

The Orphan, and The Patch.

 

The Patch because he was the “bad” guy shouting at other kids who were booing him.

Barbado and the Jersey Hurricane.

Stacey Fitzpatrick plays during Intermission.

Terry Rivel sang the Star Spangled Banner before the event started and then sang some songs during the Intermission. www.terryrivelsongs.com

 

The band Volt plays during Intermission.

From L-R: Barbado (mask), Big Tony (on mat), Abe Yusef, and Chris (referee)

 

Barbado (mask), Big Tony

20 People Battle Royale Match. Last one in the ring wins. Left to right: Atomic Dog, Damon Force (on ground), Mark Cruz, The Freak, Jersey Hurricane, Corey Havoc, and Big Tony (in corner).

“Dangerous” Dom Devito enters.

 Coach Dodge Jr. faces his opponent “Dangerous” Dom Devito. Dodge’s character was Battleship and he used to be a pro wrestler back in the day.

Here he is with his two sons.