LAURINBURG — Law enforcement officers in neighboring Scotland County are bringing in brawlers to step inside the squared circle to help one of their own.
The Scotland County Sheriff’s Office, Scotland County Crime Stoppers and Laurinburg Police Department are tag-teaming with Coastal Atlantic Grappling Entertainment to promote “Fight for Lt. J. McPhatter.”
McPhatter, an Army veteran, is a patrol lieutenant and has been with the SCSO for nearly two decades.
According to the SCSO, McPhatter underwent triple-bypass heart surgery earlier this year. He returned to work after recovery, but was then diagnosed with cancer.
“Lt. McPhatter is a leader and friend to the community,” Detective Sgt. Donald Ray Morton, who previously worked for the Hamlet Police Department, said in a letter seeking sponsors.
“He is a loving father and mentor to many,” Morton added. “This battle is tough enough to battle in regard to health, but financial obligations do not stop due to battles like this. So, we are wanting to do our part to help this amazing man.”
Morton, who also wrestles as Cruze Bittle, will step into the ring to face Hang Tyme in a match refereed by WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Valiant.
The seven-match card also includes several title matches: Atlantic Coast Tag Team Championship; C.A.G.E. TV Championship; Atlantic Coast Heavyweight Championship; and C.A.G.E. Heavyweight Championship.
Longtime regional wrestler and promoter Chief Jay Eagle will also have a “One Last Time” match.
But Valiant and Eagle aren’t the only legends slated for an appearance.
Former Washington Redskins and Atlanta Falcons wide receiver “Downtown” Charlie Brown will also be at the event.
All proceeds will go directly to McPhatter, according to Morton.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 10 at the National Guard Armory in Laurinburg. Doors open at 6 p.m. and bell time is an hour later. General admission tickets are $8 and kids 12 and under get in free with a paying adult.
For sponsorships, contact Morton at 910-266-4332 Ext.. 4.
