CANASTOTA, NY – APRIL 13, 2009 – The International Boxing Hall of Fame is eagerly anticipating the celebration of its landmark 20th anniversary. Many events are being planned to celebrate the occasion, including the Annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, June 11-14th.
Since the Hall of Fame opened in 1989, progress has been made in honoring the international sport of boxing. The first class of inductees was enshrined in 1990 and the first expansion to the Museum was completed in 1992. The Hall celebrated its 5th Anniversary in 1994, its 10th Anniversary in 1999 and its 15th Anniversary in 2004. In late 2002, ground was broken for the Event Pavilion, which was completed in the spring of 2003. The Event Pavilion now proudly houses the world famous Madison Square Garden boxing ring. The Hall’s collection of memorabilia and research material has grown immensely through the years and has helped entertain and educate boxing fans from around the world.
“With the 20th anniversary upon us, it’s a great time to reflect on the strides made in ‘Boxing’s Hometown’ while casting an eye towards the future,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “We want to thank everyone in the boxing community who has played a part in the success of the Hall of Fame.”
Events planned for the Induction Weekend include a banquet, night of rising stars, parade, golf tournament, boxing autograph card show, cocktail party and the Official Induction Ceremony honoring the Class of 2009. In addition, other special activities will be implemented for the celebration, including a fireworks display.
New inductees to be honored are bantamweight champion Orlando Canizales, heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis, junior lightweight champion Brian Mitchell, matchmaker / publicist / promoter Bob Goodman, promoter Akihiko Honda, journalist Hugh McIlvaney and broadcaster Larry Merchant. Posthumous inductees will also be honored.
According to Hall of Fame officials, nearly 200 volunteers are contributing their time and effort to make the Hall of Fame Weekend a success. Planning for the event began last fall and everything is on schedule for a memorable and exciting Hall of Fame Weekend.
An impressive list of boxing legends of yesterday and today are scheduled to participate in weekend festivities. Tickets for all events are now available and capacity crowds are again anticipated for June.
“Boxing fans from throughout the United States and abroad have already reserved tickets and made hotel accommodations for the weekend,” said Brophy. “This event will be one that everyone involved in the sport will be proud of and will hopefully generate additional interest in the sport.”
For more information on the Hall of Fame’s 20th Anniversary please call (315) 697-7095 or visit www.ibhof.com