The New York State Championship is filled with history and legacy. From the first championship won at the 2009 Gold Rush Rumble to the multiple reigns held by many workhorses, Mister Tibbs, Fighter Cat, and Dezmond Cole.
At VPW’s Justified, that changed when Leo Sparrow captured the championship in front of a stunned VPW Faithful in Bay Shore. Senior official Steven Dumeng stopped the contest, which fans could not believe. While championships usually change hand only via pin-fall or submission, referees are granted the authority to stop a contest if they feel a wrestler is unable to continue.
Dumeng did ask Cole if he was able to continue, but after seeing Cole struggle to get to a vertical base on multiple occasions, he made the call to end the contest and rule Cole unable to continue. As a result, Sparrow was crowned as the new VPW New York State Champion.
Dezmond Cole stunned fans at VPW’s Blood Sweat and 16 years when he met Eric James for the New York State Championship. After sitting in the crowd, watching James win championships in VPW, Cole was now the top champion in New York. Facing many tough challenges, Dezmond Cole proved he was not just a flash in the pan.
Leo Sparrow joined Victory Pro Wrestling in April at VPW’s Blood Sweat and 17 years, picking up a win in his debut match against Jack Tomlinson. In May’s Higher Point, Leo picked up a win to become the top contender for the New York State championship. Later that night, he attacked Dezmond Cole, injuring Cole’s knee.
Cole was deemed medically clear to compete but the weakened knee proved to be a factor. Cole’s reign as New York State Champion of 448 days is the third longest. Eric James’ reign at 574 official days is number two, and Fighter Cat’s reign is number one as he was champion for 588 days.
VPW owner John Radioo was approached by fans who were shocked this could happen. “Fans did come to me,” he said to VictoryProWrestling.com, “but the official ruling will stand. I am proud of Dezmond’s heart and desire to continue. He proves even in defeat why he is a champion and a true class wrestler.”
What will happen Saturday night July 15 when Victory Pro Wrestling returns to Pro Game Athletics in Bay Shore for VPW 163: BATTLE IN BAY SHORE?
MAIN EVENT TAG TEAM MATCH
Victory Pro Wrestling Champion Eric James teams with Bryce Donovan to take on
Kaide Lothbrok and the “Shadowbanned” Jack Tomlinson
NEW YORK STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Bobby Orlando challenges New VPW New York State Champion Leo Sparrow
GRUDGE MATCH
Alvin Alvarez takes on Dr Sleep Anthony Gangone
VPW WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
Valerie Verman debuts to challenge VPW Women’s Champion Valentina Vaquez
PLUS ALL YOUR FAVORITE VPW STARS!!
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
RINGSIDE SEATS – SOLD OUT
GENERAL ADMISSION – $25
General Admission tickets are first come, first served
https://victoryprowrestling.ticketleap.com/
For more information call (631) 357-1810
