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Fight night delights
Event fundraiser for holiday drive
4 Wrestling pic1
The Mexican Dragon kept his mask on for his losing match against Antonio Garza at Saturday night’s Universal Championship Wrestling event in Dawsonville, though the crowd called for Garza to unmask him. The event helped raise money for the local Shop with a Cop. program. - photo by Michele Hester Dawson Community News

Bobby Cordell said his son doesn’t miss a professional wrestling event.

  

“He’s been to every Wrestlemania since he was born,” Cordell said of the 10-year-old, who’s also named Bobby.

  

The Cordells drove in from Canton on Saturday night for Universal Championship Wrestling and a chance to meet some superstars of the sport.

  

“I thought this would be a great birthday present for him,” the elder Cordell said.

  

The youngster’s eyes lit up as wrestling legend Lex Luger entered the convention center on Dawson Forest Road and started signing autographs.

  

Luger retired from professional wrestling after a 20-year career with the National Wrestling Alliance, World Championship Wrestling and the World Wrestling Federation.

  

The wrestling legend said he enjoyed supporting grassroots efforts to revive the family-style Saturday night wrestling.

  

“It’s a lot of fun to be here,” said Luger, who lives in Atlanta. “They put on a very nice, family event. I love to come out and help a little bit and see the fans. I enjoy it.”

  

Luger joined names like Reid Flair, son of the legendary Rick Flair, and Hijo de Rey Misterio, for the evening, which featured four matches, including women’s and tag-team events.

  

Luger, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2007, said he doesn’t miss being in the ring.

  

“I’m just here as a throw in, other entertainment,” the former heavyweight star laughed.

  

A portion of the proceeds raised Saturday night will benefit the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office’s Shop With a Cop program.

  

The program helps buy Christmas gifts for local children in need.