HOLYOKE — Pro wrestlers came to grips inside the ring at William J. Dean Technical High School on Friday night to help an 11-year-old Holyoke boy grapple with his illness.
A crowd filled the gymnasium for the Brave in The Heart event, a fundraiser to benefit Andrew Wilson and the Dean Tech career vocational technical education programs.
In 2023, Andrew was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease called HLH (Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis), an auto immune disorder. The condition prevents his immune system from functioning properly, leaving him vulnerable to severe infections.
In addition, Andrew also suffers from MAS (Macrophage Activation Syndrome), a related disease that causes painful hyperinflammation.
Andrew faced a critical health crisis that required his transfer to Boston Children’s Hospital due to multi-organ failure and pneumonia. He spent more than 20 days in the ICU, undergoing multiple blood and platelet transfusions, daily dialysis and numerous tests.
Among Andrew’s favorite pasttimes is attending pro-wrestling events. So the wrestling community decided to come together and return the love he has always shown the sport.
The action-packed pro wrestling event was sponsored by Headlocks for Humanity and Legacy is Timeless. Raffles and prizes were also featured.
On hand was John Cena Sr., the father of famous professional wrestler and movie star John Cena, who hosted the event.
Ring action included bouts between “Top 5 Dead or Alive” Sammy Diaz and “Blue Thunder” Jay Freddie; “Number One” Ichiban and Springfield’s Finest “The Heart of the City” Jiggie Sosa; “Big Bacon” Brad Hollister and “The Moonlight Son” Mike Skyros; “The Magnificent” Marcos Santiago with Honest Abe and “The Dream Crusher” Danny Miles; and “The Spectacular” L.I.T. Yungboy and “Da Big Boofa” Dezmond Cole.
Also, The Test of Strength Tag Team titles were defended as Nolan Pierce and Mark Alexander, known as Counterstrike, took on Pretty Papi and Dicky Moon, who are known as Pretty Chill.
A rough and tumble Battle for the Valley All Star Rumble had fans cheering for more.
