News Summary

URBANA — Champaign County wrestling's biggest fan might be its strongest as well.

Dorothy "Grandma" Brown, 91, planned to sit out this year's Champaign County Big Time Wrestling event Wednesday, Aug. 6, after a recent surgery to remove colon cancer, her daughter Mary Wells said.

But Brown arrived right on time Wednesday night, escorted to the match by a sheriff's cart and her granddaughters.

Big Time Wrestling announcers awarded Brown the "Champaign County Biggest Wrestling Fan" title for her dedication and spunk that has become part of the match.

"She makes the show," granddaughter Joyce Allen said.

Brown did not jump into the ring as in past years, but the rest of the fans' cheers and taunts kept the wrestlers on their toes.

Wrestler Marcus "Buff" Bagwell said Brown was one of the most memorable parts of the Champaign County Fair.

Bagwell, of Marietta, Ga., has wrestled for the World Wrestling Federation, World Championship Wrestling and many independent groups.

"I'm the most-used independent wrestler," he said.

Rob Wagner of Piqua and his son Jessee came to see "Buff" after watching him on television.

"I've been a wrestling fan since I was about 2," Wagner said.

Other wrestlers included Robby Starr, "Big Gun" Jeff Cannon, Sin-D and James Hines, better known as Bobby Fulton of the Fantastics.

Starr, who wore metallic blue shorts with black stars, said he enjoys wrestling because of the excitement and young fans.

"There's nothing like Urbana," Starr said. "It's one of the best crowds."

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0283 or jbalmert@coxohio.com.