Wrestler Ric Flair surprises Florence fan

FLORENCE – Florence resident Roger Pope has been a fan of wrestler Ric Flair all of his life. On Saturday afternoon he was able to meet the champ face to face at a restaurant he and his wife, Sheryl Pope, own on Pamplico Highway in Florence.

Flair made a stop by Woodstone BBQ to surprise Roger Pope with a visit. The two enjoyed a Southern-style meal together, conversation and laughter before posing for a series of photos.

“It’s a great feeling,” Roger Pope said. “It’s a pleasure, an honor.”

Flair said being able to spend time with Roger Pope was great. He makes surprise visits with fans a few times each month.

“My girlfriend couldn’t wait to get here, and these people are lovely and great hosts and hostess and their son is fantastic, and nothing better to do on a Saturdayafternoon than have a good time.”

Sheryl Pope said it took them about three months to work it out in their schedules for Flair to make the visit Saturday. She said her son, Jason Pope, talked to Flair about making the visit.

“Jason was working with it and he was calling me about four times a day,” Sheryl Pope said. “He and Ric are good friends.”

Flair said he was invited to the early birthday party after he demonstrated the fact that he liked barbecue and Southern food. He said he has been coming to Florence for years.

Flair said it’s rewarding to think that you’ve been a part in someone’s life.

“Better to be a good memory of someone’s life than a bad memory,” he said.

Roger Pope said Flair’s wrestling skill and his catch phrase, “woooo,” are what he likes most about him.

“I just appreciate him coming and joining us in a meal,” Roger Pope said. “Maybe he’ll come back.”

Flair assured Pope that he will make another stop at Woodstone BBQ.

“I’ve had a wonderful time. These are wonderful people,” Flair said. “I wish them the best.”

This story was originally published April 18, 2015 at 10:04 PM with the headline "Wrestler Ric Flair surprises Florence fan."