Wrestling returns to Okanagan
Former opponent of Hulk Hogan among wrestlers who will perform this weekend in Kelowna, Vernon
Awrestler who became a minister headlines two big charity events this weekend in the Okanagan.
Ted DiBiase, also known as the Million Dollar Man, will be wrestling Friday at the Rutland Centennial Hall and Saturday at the Vernon Recreation Centre.
DiBiase, who gained fame as a frequent grappling opponent of Hulk Hogan in the 1980s, is one of 15 wrestlers scheduled to perform. The matches are promoted by Invasion Championship Wrestling, which hosts two wrestling spectacles each year to benefit local charities.
In the past few years, more than $150,000 has been raised for charities such as the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club, Mamas for Mamas, YMCA Strong Kids and the North Okanagan Neurological Association. While he’s in town, DiBiase will also speak at Willow Park Church in Rutland.
Sarah (Cheesecake) Moras, a mixed-martial arts fighter from Kelowna, will also appear at the wrestling matches. Promoter Mike Chisholm declined Monday to say if she will take on any of the wrestlers.
“You’ll have to buy a ticket to find that out,” he said, laughing.
Doors for both wrestling venues open at 6:30 p.m., with the bell at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20, or four for $60, available in advance at various locations. Past events have sold out beforehand.
While the wrestlers are paid, no one else makes money off the matches, with the events staged by volunteers just to raise money for worthy causes.
See kelownainvasion.com for more information.