Missouri Wrestling Revival

By Shane Cooper

Six short weeks ago, a local wrestler’s life was almost ripped away. He, his wife, his baby, and a good friend were driving home from a show in St Louis. It was a fairly good wrestling show, as far as promotions not named WWE go, they had a good show and Darren Gamblin more commonly known to wrestling fans as Jack Gamble, won his tag match with the Canadian Destroyer.

On the way back home, their vehicle was hit by a drunk driver at high speed in a head on collision. The driver who hit them was killed in the accident, and in nothing less than a miracle, the Gamblin family survived. The baby in the back seat got out with just a scratch, while the parents were sent to the hospital. Bones were shattered. People prayed. At some moments, family and close friends came to the hospital with intentions of telling their loved one goodbye.

He is now out of the hospital, in a wheelchair, and using crutches when he has the strength. A drunk driver put him in this position, and nearly took his life. He wrestled some of the best matches the indy feds of Missouri have ever seen. His match with Brian Breaker was nominated for match of the year by some in the area, and now, he can’t walk.

People from all around have come together to help support the family in any way they can. Harley Race tonight put together a WLW show with all proceeds going directly to help the family with medical bills. The Cauliflower Alley Club has donated money to help as well. Ace Steel and many other wrestlers have made donations. The fans have done their best to be supportive as well with finances, well wishes and prayers. God has truly blessed this man and his family through everyone that has been willing to help and continues to help, and it is greatly appreciated by them.

At the benefit show tonight, Darren came out on crutches, to a standing ovation. He made his way into the ring, took a deep breath to take in the moment of fans on their feet cheering for him in his hometown. He choked back the tears and offered his heartfelt appreciation for everyone who has been supporting him and his family. He maintaned a positive attitude throughout it all. He proudly stood on one leg, holding his crutches, and stated in front of family, friends, and fans: “Wrestling is in my heart, not my body, I WILL be in this ring again.”

He has the heart, desire, and determination to overcome certain death and come back to the squared circle to entertain us, the wrestling fans. I believe he will.