Throwdown for a cause to take place in Ventnor

Last Updated on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 11:15 pm Written by SHAUN SMITH Sunday, March 17, 2013 01:00 am

Ventnor native Anthony Graves will appear at the “From the Ashes” wrestling event Saturday, March 23 at the Ventnor Educational Community Complex.

VENTNOR – Whatcha gonna do brother, when professional wrestling comes to a venue near you?

No, it’s not Hulk Hogan. The Bodyslam Wrestling Organization will present a full card of professional wrestling to benefit Ventnor City Policeman’s Benevolent Association Local 97 Saturday, March 23 at the Ventnor Educational Community Complex.

Billed as “From the Ashes,” the event will feature Ventnor native Anthony Graves and a heavyweight bout between champion Tristen Law and Rhett Titus.

Delirious is set to square off against Preacher, Terra Callaway will face Arlene, and Grizzly Redwood will try to take down Ray Ray Marz. Steve Off, Magic Mike Capp and ECP will also make appearances.

According to PBA President David Gaeckle, the union donates its time and money to local organizations like Ventnor Little League, Ventnor Pirates football and the Ventnor Home and School Association. The group also sponsors events such as National Night Out and the annual barbecue for eighth-graders.

“Because we are a nonprofit organization we depend on our fundraising, and with those funds we can give assistance to the community,” Gaeckle said Wednesday. “Recently we helped several families in the community that were affected by Hurricane Sandy.”

He said the organization has provided monetary assistance to families and plans to assist with rebuilding efforts.

Events such as next weekend’s wrestling help the organization fund community projects – and Gaeckle anticipates that it will be a night of high entertainment. 

“It is kind of a unique thing to have in the area,” Gaeckle said. “It’s going to be pretty exciting.”

Doors open 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the VECC, 400 N. Lafayette Ave. The first match is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Snacks, soda and water will be available during the show in the cafeteria. 

Tickets can be purchased through the PBA by calling (609) 705-8168 or emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or through Bodyslam Wrestling at (973) 902-2345 or www.shopbodyslam.webs.com/apps/webstore.

Donations to the PBA can be mailed to Ventnor PBA Local 97, PO Box 2033, Ventnor, NJ 08406.