The Oklahoma City Police Athletic League (or “OKCPAL”) does amazing work throughout the metro, and this fund-raising black-tie event really feels like a smoky blast from the past. This year marks the sixth one we’ve helped play a small part in, and it’s easily one of my favorite annual events.

Just walking in early to the event this year and seeing so many familiar faces felt like the family reunion that everyone actually likes going to. Nicole Thomas and her incredible team at Epic Events does an amazing job pulling a million things together to weave a beautiful tapestry of a well-run, enjoyable evening for all. Also, special thanks to my talented friend Travis Garrett for his assistance shooting that evening also. Travis is also a pro photographer and has an amazing wedding photography business. It’s an exhausting evening, but always feels so worth it in the end.

I didn’t catch the final amount of money that was raised this year, but it’s usually around a half-million dollars! (Someone correct me if you have the figure and I’ll edit this!)

The celebrity co-host this year was Robbie “Ruthless” Lawler. He has an impressive record and an amazing highlight reel from his continued fighting career. It was a real delight to discover that he’s a real down-to-earth guy, really laid back, and the kind of guy who seemed to genuinely enjoy meeting everyone and spending the evening helping to raise money for a great cause here in central Oklahoma.

Here are some highlights from this year’s 2020 OKCPAL Charity Fight Night event…

Robbie “Ruthless” Lawler, center, with several attendees of the VIP reception at the Criterion.

A group portrait of the Board members of OKCPAL.

If you’re a cigar aficionado, there’s so much to love about this event.

I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a longer cigar.

The lighting was really awesome this year… Lasers were a great addition, especially considering the atmosphere filled with cigar smoke. =)

This next image is one of my favorites… A victory pose by one of the most popular local fighters that evening. It was begging to be a black and white image, so I obliged. =)

Another cool detail / candid during the fights.

We go from table to table throughout the event to give everyone a chance for a group portrait with the celebrity co-host each year.