“No over-sixties will be harmed in the process,” jokes Richard Whittaker, manager of the St Sampson’s Centre, ahead of their most unexpected event yet.
Because the 12th century church, now home to an older people’s hub, is to host live wrestling.
This summer, the charity is teaming up with Sovereign Nation Wrestling (SNW) to host SNW: Redemption, the city’s first ever wrestling event held in a church.
St Sampson’s is a vital community hub in York that provides a space for people to connect, combat loneliness, and improve wellbeing.
Like many charitable organisations, St Sampson’s has faced a tough few years with dwindling numbers, lack of revenue, utility price rises, and challenges such as access into the city centre.
“We’re all feeling the pinch,” Richard told YorkMix.
In an effort to raise funds and engagement, he began exploring ideas for community events at the church, but was unsure on what direction to go in.
York wrestling promoter and Richard’s friend Chris Marston popped into the centre one day to ask about putting posters up for an upcoming show.
Richard agreed, and as Chris was about to leave, made a joking remark.
“I asked him, ‘Have you ever thought about hosting a wrestling event here?’ He looked around at the high ceilings, and said, ‘Yes, it’s perfect, the wrestlers can jump off them!’”
“I just said, ‘Right, let’s get it on!’” Richard laughed.
The event will feature seven wrestling matches. Four of them are championship matches.
Adding to the excitement, one of SNW’s top stars, Matty Mayhem, is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ring
“He’s been out injured since November and this is his big comeback event, so it’ll be quite a big thing for Mayhem,” Chris told YorkMix.
The family-friendly event is aimed at everyone, not just those with a keen interest in the sport.
“ If you like any form of entertainment, there’s something in wrestling for you. If you like a sports event, there’s sports, there’s athletics, there’s elements of comedy, elements of theatre, there’s elements of acrobatics.
“Even if you like soap operas, it’s like a soap opera!” Chris explained.
The event promises to be a night to remember, and caters to all ages, with some of the elderly attendees of St Sampsons Centre having already secured their front row tickets.
“ There’s a couple of ladies that haven’t seen wrestling in a long time, and they’re very excited, so the wrestlers best be ready for their handbags!” Richard joked.
The night will also be a lot more personal for those that are fans of wrestling, “If people are particularly into wrestling, you could spend upwards of £60 on tickets to go and see the big American wrestlers and you might as well just be watching it on tv.
“Whereas with this, the wrestlers will interact with the crowd, all in good humour!” Chris added.
Tickets start at just £8, and a group ticket can be purchased for £45.
Event information is as follows:
- Where: St Sampson’s Social Centre, York, YO1 8BE
- When: Saturday 26th July 2025 7pm
- Doors Open: 6.30pm
- Tickets: Here
