BAY SHORE, N.Y. – With a defining victory at Summer Showdown, Rex Lawless has made one thing clear: the New York State Championship is back – and he’s daring anyone to try and take it from him.
Lawless, known for his raw power and no-nonsense approach in the ring, successfully defended his title in dramatic fashion against Zakk Ramses in a hair-versus-title match, one of the most anticipated bouts of the night. It marked his first defense since winning the championship at Battle in Bay Shore 3, and he delivered with authority.
“I told you Zakk,” Lawless said following the win. “I told you I was going to walk away as champion.”
The match lived up to its billing. From the opening bell, Lawless and Ramses traded heavy shots in a physical clash that tested both endurance and resolve. Ramses, still in search of his first championship in Victory Pro Wrestling, showed grit and determination – but Lawless was unrelenting. After a decisive pinfall, Ramses’ fate was sealed, and the clippers came out as the crowd erupted.
For Lawless, it wasn’t just about defending his title – it was about restoring credibility to a championship that, in his view, had lost its meaning.
“Now, I’m going to restore honor to this championship,” Lawless said. “I’m going to take on anybody. Anybody that wants to challenge me for this – take it from me. I dare you.”
That dare will be put to the test at Gold Rush Rumble on Saturday, Aug. 9, in Bay Shore, where Lawless is scheduled to make his second title defense in the form of an open challenge. The rules are simple: any competitor on the VPW roster can answer the call. No advance notice. No time to prepare. Just one-on-one for the New York State Championship.
It’s a bold move for a champion who’s only just begun his reign – but that seems to be exactly the point.
Lawless is a heavyweight who’s as agile as he is imposing. A product of the New York wrestling scene, Lawless built his reputation on resilience and intensity. Over the past year, he has climbed steadily up the Victory Pro Wrestling ladder, pushing through setbacks and silencing doubters along the way.
But with the open challenge, the road ahead becomes unpredictable. Lawless, however, seems undeterred.
The buzz surrounding the Gold Rush Rumble has only intensified with Lawless’ open challenge, as speculation grows over who will answer the call. Will it be a familiar face with a grudge? A new arrival hoping to shock the system? Or could it be a wildcard from outside the VPW roster?
Regardless of the answer, one thing is certain: Rex Lawless is ready.
Victory Pro Wrestling returns to Pro Game Sports in Bay Shore on Saturday night, August 9, 2025 for the 2025 Gold Rush Rumble
VPW PRESENTS THE GOLD RUSH RUMBLE
Saturday August 9 | Pro Game Sports in Bay Shore
Tickets are on sale now!!!
THE GOLD RUSH RUMBLE
20 competitors compete for the opportunity to challenge for any sanctioned VPW Championship of their choice! This is the ultimate chance for anyone to take it to the next level!
VPW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
Champions The Even Stevens vs Cain Industries vs Security Inc
VPW NEW YORK STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
OPEN CHALLENGE
Champion Rex Lawless has issued an open challenge to anyone in VPW
VPW WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
TRIPLE THREAT ELIMINATION MATCH
The Unwilting Tatiana vs Temptatious Tiphani Grady vs The Thorn in Your Side Kate Thorn
FIRST OR LAST GOLD RUSH RUMBLE MATCH
WINNER ENTERS THE GOLD RUSH RUMBLE AT #20, LOSER ENTERS AT #1
The Lost Child JJ Doze vs The Veteran David Graham
…and so much more!!!
For more information call (631) 357-1810
Get ready for an unforgettable night of live wrestling action at Pro Game Sports, the official home of Victory Pro Wrestling!
Over 13,000 square feet of space, typically dedicated to batting practice and soccer, transforms into an electric wrestling arena. Conveniently located just minutes from the heart of Bay Shore and only five minutes from the South Shore Mall, making it easy to get to and even easier to enjoy!
Food & Drinks:
Satisfy your appetite with a selection of delicious food and beverages provided by Pro Game Sports, available for purchase throughout the evening.