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New York State Boxing Hall of Fame induction dinner Displayed pride, emotions and grateful thanks

May 4, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

NYSBHOF CLASS OF 2022 – (L-R) Seated: Don Elbaum, Bill Verigan, John Turner, Ron McNair, John Verderosa, Jill Diamond, Larry Barnes and Verno Phillips; Standing: Donny Lalonde, Shannon Briggs, Michael Bentt and Mike Silver.

(all pictures by Peter Frutkoff – NYSBHOF)

**NEW YORK (May 3, 2022)** – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame’s (NYSBHOF) Class of 2122 was inducted this past Sunday at a special ceremony, sponsored by Ring 8, in front of 360 attendees at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“This was the most emotional NYSBHOF induction dinner ever,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “Several inductees cried during their acceptance speeches and that really made everything more exciting for everybody. You could see how really proud each of the inductees were as they proudly displayed their belts. This is all about honoring New York boxing people for their accomplishments and contributions. It was another knockout!”

One of the largest ovations was for Master of Ceremonies Dave Diamante for his remarkable recovery from a near-death accident that left him with a broken back.

(L-R) – MC Dave Diamante & NYSBHOF President Bob Duffy

Living boxers inducted into the NYSBHOF included Brooklyn WBO Heavyweight World Champions Jamaica’s Michael Bentt (11-2, 6 KOs), also a 4-time New York Golden Gloves gold medalist, and Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs (60-6-1, 53 KOs); Albany’s 3-time World light middleweight titlist Verno Phillips (42-11-1, 2 KOs), WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde (42-11-1, 21 KOs), Staten Island’s WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion Johnny “The Heat” Verderosa (41-5-1, 33 KOs), Mount Vernon’s 2-time World title challenger and No. 1 ranked welterweight contender Larry “No Fear” Barnes (44-3-1, 17 KOs), and Brooklyn’s welterweight Johnny Turner (42-6-2, 32 KOs)

Posthumous participants inducted were World Lightweight Champion Bronx’ Al Singer (62-9-2, 26 KOs), World’s Colored Light Heavyweight Champion Kid Norfolk (88-25-7, 49 KOs), Brooklyn’s lightweight Pasquale Patsy Giovanelli (44-7-1, 14 KOs), Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion Cannonball Eddie Martin (81-12-4, 29 KOs), New York City’s World Light Heavyweight title challenger Battling Siki (60-24-4, 31 KOs), Brooklyn’s Novice New York Golden Gloves and Intercity Golden Gloves champion Solly Krieger (82-25-6 , 54 KOs), New York City’s No. 1 world ranked middleweight contender Herbie Kronowitz (55-23-5, 10 KOs), Buffalo’s World featherweight champion Tommy Paul (80-28-10, 26 KOs), and Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion and US Olympian Lou Salica (67-17-12, 13 KOs).

Living non-participants who were inducted the NYSBHOF were judge Queens New York Golden Gloves finalist, inspector and licensed judge Ron McNair, promoter/manager/matchmaker Don Elbaum, New York City journalists Ed Schuyler of New York City and Bill Verigan, New York City author/journalist Tom Hauser, Queens author/journalist/ Mike Silver, and Brooklyn’s Jill Diamond, Secretary of the World Boxing Council and International Chair or WBC Cares.

Posthumous non-participant inductees now in the NYSBHOF are Brooklyn’s trainer and Stillman’s gym owner Lou Stillman, New York City’s promoter/manager Bill Cayton, NYC Mayor James Walker who legalized boxing in NY, publicists John Condon, of Queens, and New York City’s Irving Rudd, Brooklyn’s journalist Richard K. Fox, and trainer Victor Valle.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) received a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2021 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

**CLASS OF 2021 INDUCTEE QUOTES & PICTURES**

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for? (Audience) Why should they care? (Benefit) What do I want them to do here? (Call-to-Action)

Create a great offer by adding words like “free” “personalized” “complimentary” or “customized.” A sense of urgency often helps readers take an action, so think about inserting phrases like “for a limited time only” or “only 7 remaining”!

Bill Verigan: “Whether a boxer is in the Hall of Fame or not, they train hard, compete hard and have overcome hard losses. I’m very, very thankful to be here today. Thank you so much.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Henry Hascup, Shannon Briggs, Bob Duffy & Tommy Gallagher

Shannon Briggs: “Let’s go champ! Let’s go champ. Let’s go champ. This is amazing. I grew up in Brooklyn and lived in Brownsville. I weighed less than 2 pounds when I was born and asthmatic. I was bullied growing up in Brownsville, but I made it. We lost our home. Tough times growing up. I had to fight. I can’t believe I’m in the Hall of Fame. My aunt said, ‘We going to make it.’ She’s here today.

“I fell into boxing. I was never into sports. I can’t catch and still can’t dribble. But when I put gloves on, something about me changed, and nobody could do anything to me. No more bullying. I went from sleeping on the train or in the gym to traveling around the world. Nobody believed in me until Vito Antuofermo said, ‘This kid can be something.’ I just turned 50 and I’m up here with Vito. I won the Golden Gloves when I was homeless. This is all unexpected. I never though I’d be a boxer. I put gloves on and got busy. I started winning. Boxing helped me stay out of jail, selling drugs, or running the streets. I became heavyweight champion of the world. Shout out to everybody who believed in me. A lot are here today. Thank you, guys. Let’s go champ!”

(L-R) – Jack Hirsch & John Turner

Johnny Turner: I want to thank everyone for having me here today. I want to thank my trainers and Joe DeGuardia for believing in me. My most prestigious fight was with Wilfredo Benitez, and I was in the move, ‘Raging Bull.’ I’m a very lucky guy.”

(L-R) – Diamante, Ryan O’Leary, Larry Barnes, Melvina Lathan & Bob Duffy

Larry Barnes: “I’m going to be short; I can’t match Shannon. Let’s go champ! I’m very excited to be here with all these champions. I want to thank all the people in boxing for believing in me. I never gave up. Most of all, I want to thank me for putting in all the hard work.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Michael Bentt, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. & Bob Duffy

Michael Bentt: “It’s wonderful to be back in New York. I didn’t get here by myself. I want to thank four groups: my mentors, sponsors and facilitators, boxers who inspired me, and my allies. I was captain of the USA Boxing Team and got a call to be in the movie ‘Ali’ (he played Sonny Liston). Young people should seek people like those who inspired me: Muhammad Ali, Mark Breland, Mike McCallum, Shannon Briggs, Evander Holyfield, Ronald Turner and Monte Barrett. They fueled my flame.”

(L-R) – Jill Diamond & JoAnn Aquilera

Jill Diamond: “I want to thank my two biggest mentors, Jose Suliaman and Joe Dwyer. I’d like to thank my New York family who still think I go to the Golden Globes instead of the Golden Gloves. And thanks to my WBC family that embraced me, especially Mauricio Suliaman, who said to come join us. I do know that in the big boxing family, if anybody hurt somebody, they would always help. I wish, especially with what’s going on today, others settled things in the ring like us. The world would be a better place.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Mike Silver, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. & Bob Duffy

Mike Silver: “I’m very humbled and appreciative to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame selection committee to receive this honor. It’s so gratifying coming from peers. Boxing is the most colorful sport. In my books I give my perception to be informative, educational, and entertaining. I used to check newsstands for the new Ring magazine and Boxing News. I respected boxers and fell in love with the sport. One thing will never change in boxing. In the ring it’s about hitting without getting hit, the science of the sport. Boxers’ stories are not written. It takes their blood, sweat and tears. And that will never change.”

(L-R) – Don & Kipp Elbaum

Don Elbaum: “I’m honored and thankful by this. What a run it’s been running shows. I’m still doing it. I remember putting shows on at Madison Square Garden. No sport has 1-on-1 world champions like boxing. Many countries have kings, but there is only one in boxing, and that’s the world heavyweight champion.”

(L-R) – Tommy Gallagher, Donny Lalonde & Bobby Cassidy, Jr.

Donny Lalonde: “I would be here without Bobby Cassidy. Bobby Cassidy, Sr. was the number one light heavyweight in the world. He was also a trainer who taught me what it took to be a boxer. Now, I’m in the New York Hall of Fame with him and his son, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. I was from Canada, and I was told that being a champion from there was worthless. When you grow up in a broken home, you really need somebody to believe in you. Don Majeski believed in me. Tommy Gallagher and Bobby Cassidy made my spirit rise high. I was ready to take on the world. Everybody said I had no business being in the wring with Eddie Davis, after he went 15 rounds with Michael Spinks. I knocked him out 22 seconds into the second round to win the world title. Thanks to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame for having me here.”

(L-R – John & Wiliam Verderosa

John Verderosa: “I appreciate the accolades. This is fantastic. Forty years later, it blows my mind that people remember me from so long ago. I’m so honored. Thank you so much.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Henry Hascup, Verno Phillips and his son K.J. Phillips, & Bob Duffy

Verno Phillips: “New York Hall of Fame, baby. I made it! I put in the work. Like my grandmother said, ‘You got to go out and run.’”
_____________________________________________________________________

**NYSBHOF**

**CLASS of 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS of 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon, and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein, and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan, and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar, and Sam Taub.

*No class of 2019 or 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions*

**CLASS OF 2021:** Jorge Ahumada, Alfredo Escalera, Freddie Liberatore, Dennis Milton; Lou Savarese and Merqui Sosa, Soldier Bartfield, Steve Belloise, Jimmy Goodrich, Tami Mauriello, Davey Moore, Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch, Don Ackerman, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Rick Glaser, Jack Hirsch, Max Kellerman, Dr. William Lathan, Julie Lederman, Ron Lipton, Kevin Rooney, Dan Daniel, Bobby Gleason, Flash Gordan, A.J. Liebling, Tony Mazzarella, and manager Dan Morgan
_____________________________________________________________________.

Go online at www.nyboxinghof.org or www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

**ABOUT RING 8:** Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues are only $30.00, and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

**INFORMATION:**
www.nyboxinghof.org

Class of 2022.jpg — NYSBHOF CLASS OF 2022 – (L-R) Seated: Don Elbaum, Bill Verigan, John Turner, Ron McNair, John Verderosa, Jill Diamond, Larry Barnes and Verno Phillips; Standing: Donny Lalonde, Shannon Briggs, Michael Bentt and Mike Silver.

(all pictures by Peter Frutkoff – NYSBHOF)

**NEW YORK (May 3, 2022)** – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame’s (NYSBHOF) Class of 2122 was inducted this past Sunday at a special ceremony, sponsored by Ring 8, in front of 360 attendees at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“This was the most emotional NYSBHOF induction dinner ever,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “Several inductees cried during their acceptance speeches and that really made everything more exciting for everybody. You could see how really proud each of the inductees were as they proudly displayed their belts. This is all about honoring New York boxing people for their accomplishments and contributions. It was another knockout!”

One of the largest ovations was for Master of Ceremonies Dave Diamante for his remarkable recovery from a near-death accident that left him with a broken back.

(L-R) – MC Dave Diamante & NYSBHOF President Bob Duffy

Living boxers inducted into the NYSBHOF included Brooklyn WBO Heavyweight World Champions Jamaica’s Michael Bentt (11-2, 6 KOs), also a 4-time New York Golden Gloves gold medalist, and Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs (60-6-1, 53 KOs); Albany’s 3-time World light middleweight titlist Verno Phillips (42-11-1, 2 KOs), WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde (42-11-1, 21 KOs), Staten Island’s WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion Johnny “The Heat” Verderosa (41-5-1, 33 KOs), Mount Vernon’s 2-time World title challenger and No. 1 ranked welterweight contender Larry “No Fear” Barnes (44-3-1, 17 KOs), and Brooklyn’s welterweight Johnny Turner (42-6-2, 32 KOs)

Posthumous participants inducted were World Lightweight Champion Bronx’ Al Singer (62-9-2, 26 KOs), World’s Colored Light Heavyweight Champion Kid Norfolk (88-25-7, 49 KOs), Brooklyn’s lightweight Pasquale Patsy Giovanelli (44-7-1, 14 KOs), Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion Cannonball Eddie Martin (81-12-4, 29 KOs), New York City’s World Light Heavyweight title challenger Battling Siki (60-24-4, 31 KOs), Brooklyn’s Novice New York Golden Gloves and Intercity Golden Gloves champion Solly Krieger (82-25-6 , 54 KOs), New York City’s No. 1 world ranked middleweight contender Herbie Kronowitz (55-23-5, 10 KOs), Buffalo’s World featherweight champion Tommy Paul (80-28-10, 26 KOs), and Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion and US Olympian Lou Salica (67-17-12, 13 KOs).

Living non-participants who were inducted the NYSBHOF were judge Queens New York Golden Gloves finalist, inspector and licensed judge Ron McNair, promoter/manager/matchmaker Don Elbaum, New York City journalists Ed Schuyler of New York City and Bill Verigan, New York City author/journalist Tom Hauser, Queens author/journalist/ Mike Silver, and Brooklyn’s Jill Diamond, Secretary of the World Boxing Council and International Chair or WBC Cares.

Posthumous non-participant inductees now in the NYSBHOF are Brooklyn’s trainer and Stillman’s gym owner Lou Stillman, New York City’s promoter/manager Bill Cayton, NYC Mayor James Walker who legalized boxing in NY, publicists John Condon, of Queens, and New York City’s Irving Rudd, Brooklyn’s journalist Richard K. Fox, and trainer Victor Valle.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) received a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2021 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

**CLASS OF 2021 INDUCTEE QUOTES & PICTURES**

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for? (Audience) Why should they care? (Benefit) What do I want them to do here? (Call-to-Action)

Create a great offer by adding words like “free” “personalized” “complimentary” or “customized.” A sense of urgency often helps readers take an action, so think about inserting phrases like “for a limited time only” or “only 7 remaining”!

Bill Verigan: “Whether a boxer is in the Hall of Fame or not, they train hard, compete hard and have overcome hard losses. I’m very, very thankful to be here today. Thank you so much.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Henry Hascup, Shannon Briggs, Bob Duffy & Tommy Gallagher

Shannon Briggs: “Let’s go champ! Let’s go champ. Let’s go champ. This is amazing. I grew up in Brooklyn and lived in Brownsville. I weighed less than 2 pounds when I was born and asthmatic. I was bullied growing up in Brownsville, but I made it. We lost our home. Tough times growing up. I had to fight. I can’t believe I’m in the Hall of Fame. My aunt said, ‘We going to make it.’ She’s here today.

“I fell into boxing. I was never into sports. I can’t catch and still can’t dribble. But when I put gloves on, something about me changed, and nobody could do anything to me. No more bullying. I went from sleeping on the train or in the gym to traveling around the world. Nobody believed in me until Vito Antuofermo said, ‘This kid can be something.’ I just turned 50 and I’m up here with Vito. I won the Golden Gloves when I was homeless. This is all unexpected. I never though I’d be a boxer. I put gloves on and got busy. I started winning. Boxing helped me stay out of jail, selling drugs, or running the streets. I became heavyweight champion of the world. Shout out to everybody who believed in me. A lot are here today. Thank you, guys. Let’s go champ!”

(L-R) – Jack Hirsch & John Turner

Johnny Turner: I want to thank everyone for having me here today. I want to thank my trainers and Joe DeGuardia for believing in me. My most prestigious fight was with Wilfredo Benitez, and I was in the move, ‘Raging Bull.’ I’m a very lucky guy.”

(L-R) – Diamante, Ryan O’Leary, Larry Barnes, Melvina Lathan & Bob Duffy

Larry Barnes: “I’m going to be short; I can’t match Shannon. Let’s go champ! I’m very excited to be here with all these champions. I want to thank all the people in boxing for believing in me. I never gave up. Most of all, I want to thank me for putting in all the hard work.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Michael Bentt, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. & Bob Duffy

Michael Bentt: “It’s wonderful to be back in New York. I didn’t get here by myself. I want to thank four groups: my mentors, sponsors and facilitators, boxers who inspired me, and my allies. I was captain of the USA Boxing Team and got a call to be in the movie ‘Ali’ (he played Sonny Liston). Young people should seek people like those who inspired me: Muhammad Ali, Mark Breland, Mike McCallum, Shannon Briggs, Evander Holyfield, Ronald Turner and Monte Barrett. They fueled my flame.”

(L-R) – Jill Diamond & JoAnn Aquilera

Jill Diamond: “I want to thank my two biggest mentors, Jose Suliaman and Joe Dwyer. I’d like to thank my New York family who still think I go to the Golden Globes instead of the Golden Gloves. And thanks to my WBC family that embraced me, especially Mauricio Suliaman, who said to come join us. I do know that in the big boxing family, if anybody hurt somebody, they would always help. I wish, especially with what’s going on today, others settled things in the ring like us. The world would be a better place.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Mike Silver, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. & Bob Duffy

Mike Silver: “I’m very humbled and appreciative to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame selection committee to receive this honor. It’s so gratifying coming from peers. Boxing is the most colorful sport. In my books I give my perception to be informative, educational, and entertaining. I used to check newsstands for the new Ring magazine and Boxing News. I respected boxers and fell in love with the sport. One thing will never change in boxing. In the ring it’s about hitting without getting hit, the science of the sport. Boxers’ stories are not written. It takes their blood, sweat and tears. And that will never change.”

(L-R) – Don & Kipp Elbaum

Don Elbaum: “I’m honored and thankful by this. What a run it’s been running shows. I’m still doing it. I remember putting shows on at Madison Square Garden. No sport has 1-on-1 world champions like boxing. Many countries have kings, but there is only one in boxing, and that’s the world heavyweight champion.”

(L-R) – Tommy Gallagher, Donny Lalonde & Bobby Cassidy, Jr.

Donny Lalonde: “I would be here without Bobby Cassidy. Bobby Cassidy, Sr. was the number one light heavyweight in the world. He was also a trainer who taught me what it took to be a boxer. Now, I’m in the New York Hall of Fame with him and his son, Bobby Cassidy, Jr. I was from Canada, and I was told that being a champion from there was worthless. When you grow up in a broken home, you really need somebody to believe in you. Don Majeski believed in me. Tommy Gallagher and Bobby Cassidy made my spirit rise high. I was ready to take on the world. Everybody said I had no business being in the wring with Eddie Davis, after he went 15 rounds with Michael Spinks. I knocked him out 22 seconds into the second round to win the world title. Thanks to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame for having me here.”

(L-R – John & Wiliam Verderosa

John Verderosa: “I appreciate the accolades. This is fantastic. Forty years later, it blows my mind that people remember me from so long ago. I’m so honored. Thank you so much.”

(L-R) – Dave Diamante, Henry Hascup, Verno Phillips and his son K.J. Phillips, & Bob Duffy

Verno Phillips: “New York Hall of Fame, baby. I made it! I put in the work. Like my grandmother said, ‘You got to go out and run.’”
_____________________________________________________________________

**NYSBHOF**

**CLASS of 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS of 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon, and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein, and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan, and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar, and Sam Taub.

*No class of 2019 or 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions*

**CLASS OF 2021:** Jorge Ahumada, Alfredo Escalera, Freddie Liberatore, Dennis Milton; Lou Savarese and Merqui Sosa, Soldier Bartfield, Steve Belloise, Jimmy Goodrich, Tami Mauriello, Davey Moore, Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch, Don Ackerman, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Rick Glaser, Jack Hirsch, Max Kellerman, Dr. William Lathan, Julie Lederman, Ron Lipton, Kevin Rooney, Dan Daniel, Bobby Gleason, Flash Gordan, A.J. Liebling, Tony Mazzarella, and manager Dan Morgan
_____________________________________________________________________.

Go online at www.nyboxinghof.org or www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

**ABOUT RING 8:** Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues are only $30.00, and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

**INFORMATION:**
www.nyboxinghof.org

boxing

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2021 May 1st Induction Dinner

November 18, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2021

May 1st Induction Dinner

NEW YORK (November 16, 2021) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) has announced its 29-member Class of 2121. The 10th NYSBHOF induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, will be Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), May 1, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“Every year the selections get more difficult,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “Everyone of these new inductees has been a major part of New York boxing. It’s talent like this that makes NYSBHOF so successful.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include WBO Heavyweight World Champions and Michael Bentt (11-2, 6 KOs), also a 4-time New York Golden Gloves gold medalist, and Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs (60-6-1, 53 KOs), 3-time World light middleweight titlist Verno Phillips (42-11-1, 2 KOs), WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde (42-11-1, 21 KOs), WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion Johnny “The Heat” Verderosa (41-5-1, 33 KOs), 2-time World title challenger and No. 1 ranked welterweight contender Larry “No Fear” Barnes (44-3-1, 17 KOs), and welterweight Johnny Turner (42-6-2, 32 KOs)

Posthumous participants being inducted World Lightweight Champion Al Singer (62-9-2, 26 KOs), World’s Colored Light Heavyweight Champion Kid Norfolk (88-25-7, 49 KOs), lightweight Patsy “Cannonball” Giovanelli (44-7-1, 14 KOs), World Bantamweight Champion Cannonball Eddie Martin (81-12-4, 29 KOs), World Light Heavyweight title challenger Battling Seki (60-24-4, 31 KOs), Novice New York Golden Gloves and Intercity Golden Gloves champion Solly Krieger (82-25-6 , 54 KOs), No. 1 world ranked middleweight contender Herbie Kronowitz (55-23-5, 10 KOs), World featherweight champion Tommy Paul (80-28-10, 26 KOs), and World Bantamweight Champion and US Olympian Lou Salica (67-17-12, 13 KOs).

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are judge Ron McNair, promoter/manager/matchmaker Don Elbaum, journalists Ed Schuyler and Bill Verigan, author/journalist Tom Hauser, author/journalist/promoter/inspector Mike Silver, and Jill Diamond, Secretary of the World Boxing Council and International Chair or WBC Cares.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are trainer and Stillman’s gym owner Lou Stillman, promoter/manager Bill Cayton, NYC Mayor James Walker who legalized boxing in NY, publicists John Condon and Irving Rudd, journalist Richard K. Fox, and trainer Victor Valle.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2021 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

NYSBHOF

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon, and Al Weill.

CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein, and Jimmy Jacobs.

CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan, and Dan Parker.

CLASS OF 2018: Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

No class of 2019 due to COVID-19 restrictions

CLASS OF 2020: Jorge Ahumada, Alfredo Escalera, Freddie Liberatore, Dennis Milton; Lou Savarese and Merqui Sosa, Soldier Bartfield, Steve Belloise, Jimmy Goodrich, Tami Mauriello, Davey Moore, Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch, Don Ackerman, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Rick Glaser, Jack Hirsch, Max Kellerman, Dr. William Lathan, Julie Lederman, Ron Lipton, Kevin Rooney, Dan Daniel, Bobby Gleason, Flash Gordan, A.J. Liebling, Tony Mazzarella and manager Dan Morgan.

Tickets are priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish, or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go online at www.nyboxinghof.org or www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

ABOUT RING 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00, and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

INFORMATION:

www.nyboxinghof.org

boxing

New York State Boxing HOF A family affair for Bobby Cassidy, Jr. Class of 2020 induction dinner Sept. 19th at Russo’s On The Bay

September 13, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

(L-R) – Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Bobby Cassidy, Sr., and brother/son Chris Cassidy (boxing photographer)

NEW YORK (September 9, 2021) – Long Island journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr. will join his father, Bobby Cassidy, Sr., in the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF). Originally scheduled for April 19, 2019, the induction dinner was postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions until **Sunday afternoon, September 19 (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET**), once again at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

The 28-member Class of 2019 will be honored at the ninth NYSBHOF induction dinner, which is sponsored by Ring 8. There will not be a Class of 2021 due to pandemic.

New York City guidelines mandates all attendees must be vaccinated to attend indoor events.

Bobby Cassidy, Sr. (2013) and Jr. are the fourth son and father tandem inducted into the NYSBHOF, but the first boxer/journalist combination. The others are boxers Floyd and Tracy Patterson, executive administrators Bobby and Murray Goodman, and referees Arthur, Sr. and Arthur Mercante, Jr.

“It’s quite an honor to be inducted into the same Hall of Fame as my da.” Bobby, Jr. said. “He’s the one responsible for my love of boxing. The sport of boxing provides us with so many rich stories. It’s been a privilege to cover the sport.”

Bobby, Jr. has worked in boxing in various roles for Newsday during the past quarter-century. He started covering boxing in 1987, when he started as a reporter for The Ring magazine, and Bobby has written about boxing for Newsday, New York Post, Los Angeles Times, ESPN.com, British Boxing News and Ringside Seat Magazine.
During the course of his decorated writing career, Cassidy has worked more than 200 world title fights and covered a Who’s Who of boxing, including stars such as “Sugar” Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearn’s Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, George Foreman, Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar de la Hoya, Felix Trinidad, Roy Jones, Jr., Bernard Hopkins, Errol Spence, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Vasily Lomachenko.

The Cassidy’s father-son bond led Bobby, Jr. to write the play, “Kid Shamrock,” based on his father’s life, which was produced Off Broadway four times from 2007 to 2012. He has worked in Newsday’s multimedia department for the last 12 years and produced numerous award-winning documentaries for Newsday.

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves winner Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs), of Greenwood Lake; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight Soldier Bartfield (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight Steve Belloise (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) Jimmy Goodrich (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger Tami Mauriello (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist Davey “Sensational” Moore (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch (74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Joining Cassidy, Jr. among the living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Wantah, Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor Lester Bromberg, New York City sportswriter Dan Daniel, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founder Bobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer Flash Gordan, Manhattan journalist A.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder Tony Mazzarella and New York City manager Dan Morgan.

There are a number of other firsts regarding some Class of 2020 inductees: husband-wife Dr. William and Melvina Lathan (Class of 2018), and daughter-father Julie and Harold (Class of 2012) Lederman.

Welch is going into the NYSBHOF as a boxer, but he also managed fellow Class of 2020 inductee Goodrich.

Each attending inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2020 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.
Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and IT includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a full course dinner (prime rib, fish, or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com.

**NEW YORK STATE BOXING HALL OF FAME**

**CLASS OF 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS OF 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon, and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein, and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan, and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

**CLASS OF 2019:** Wilfredo Benitez, Dick DiVeronica, Rogelio Tuur, Davey Vasquez, Michael Olajide, Monte Barrett, Jimmy Carter, Al “Bummy” Davis, Marty Servo, Roland LaStarza, Paddy DeMarco, Sid Terris, Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross, Don King, John McKaie, Steve Albert, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Bob Jackson, Dewey Fragetta, Johnny LoBianco, Wayne Kelly, Harry Hill, Jimmy Cannon, and Joe Dwyer.

**INFORMATION:**
www.nyboxinghof.org

boxing, Ring 8

New York State Boxing HOF & Ring 8 establish fund to assist boxers and boxing personnel in New York

April 8, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

NEW YORK (April 1, 2020) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) and Ring 8 jointly announced today a partnership to establish a COVID-19 fund to assist New York and New Jersey boxers and boxing personnel who are in financial need during the coronavirus pandemic.

Any boxing personnel (boxers, trainers, cut-men, etc.) who are independent contractors and live in New York or New Jersey may apply for monetary assistance by filling out a request form posted at www.NYBoxingHOF.org and www.Ring8tv,com, or request a form at fightpublicist@gmail.com to be directly emailed.

All applicants must be licensed (NYSAC, NJSAC or USA Boxing) and forms must be submitted to NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy by email (depcomish@aol.com) or call him (1.516.313.2304) with the required information.

“Gyms are closed, and boxing has been suspended indefinitely,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “Most boxing trainers, cut-men and other boxing personnel are independent contractors, so they do not have any income right now during this pandemic. They have families to support, rent to pay, food to put on the table, and other critical expenses. We want to help them by establishing this fund. We’re not in the position to give each applicant a large stipend, but we are able to provide a small payment to temporarily help them a little bit. We’re committed to doing this for the month of April, at the very least, and then we’ll will revisit extending payments until boxing returns, as long as there is money available in this fund. It’s the right thing to do!”

“Ring 8 is furthering our goals to assist boxers and boxing people in New York during this crisis,” Ring 8 president Charlie Norkus, Jr. added. “It has been our mission since the very beginning. We are pleased to join the New York Boxing Hall of Fame in this endeavor.”

boxing

New York State Boxing HOF Class of 2020 Induction Ceremony Postponed until September 20

March 19, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

NEW YORK (March 19, 2020) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) announced today that its ninth annual induction dinner has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic from April 19^th to September 20^th at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Money already collected for tickets and journal ads may be used for the Sept. 20^th event or returned in full upon request at point of purchase.

“Because of new city mandates and the uncertainty of the coronavirus,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy announced, “we have postponed our event until September 20. It would not have been fair to the honorees, their friends and guests, and general public to wait any longer. I must commend the ownership and management at Russo’s On The Bay for working with us during this crisis to give us a date that will hopefully work for us all.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience, advise and insight into making this decision. With the extra time I’m confident that we can make this award dinner our best ever.”

Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves winner Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs), of Greenwood Lake; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight Soldier Bartfield (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight Steve Belloise (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) Jimmy Goodrich (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger Tami Mauriello (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist Davey “Sensational” Moore (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch (74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Wantagh journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor Lester Bromberg, New York City sportswriter Dan Daniel, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founder Bobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer Flash Gordan, Manhattan journalist A.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder Tony Mazzarella and New York City manager Dan Morgan.

INFORMATION:

www.NYBoxingHOF.org

boxing

World heavyweight contender Lou Savarese to be inducted into New York State Boxing HOF

March 7, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

*Class of 2020 Induction Dinner on Sunday, April 19*

NEW YORK (March 5, 2020) – World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves champion **Lou Savarese** (46-7, 38 KOs) is living the dream, as they say, preparing for his upcoming induction into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF).

As one of the 28-member Class of 2020, the popular Savarese will be formally inducted at the ninth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner, ***Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 19***, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“I have nothing but the upmost respect and admiration for this year’s Hall of Fame honoree, Lou Savarese,” NYSBHOF president **Bob Duffy** said. “I couldn’t be happier for this man who has given boxing his all, in and out of the ring. His friends and family know that this honor is well deserved.”

Savarese was a local favorite, born in the Bronx and from Greenwood Lake, who was a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion having fought at the famed Madison Square Garden.

“This is truly amazing,” Savarese spoke about being inducted into the NYSBHOF. “I’m a New York boxing historian, going back to the 1920’s of New York boxing history. It’s so nice to have fought in the best place, New York, the epicenter of boxing.

Savarese turned pro April 30, 1989, knocking out **James Smith** in the fourth round of their fight in Houston. Savarese went on to win his first won his first 36 pro fights, highlighted by his 36^th by a seventh-round technical knockout victory of **Buster Mathis, Jr**. for the vacant United States Boxing Association (USBA) heavyweight title. It also set up a high profile 1997 showdown with **George Foreman** in Atlantic City, when Savarese lost a 12-round split decision (114-113, 112-115, 110-118) for the vacant World Boxing Union (WBU) championship.

Savarese says his opening-round knockout of former world heavyweight champion **James “Buster” Douglas** in 1998 for the International Boxing Association World heavyweight title is his greatest accomplishment in the ring.

“I was a big underdog in the Douglas fight,” Savarese remembered. “He had a good jab. That’s No. 1f or me. Winning my first New York Golden Gloves title (1985 when he stoppedJonathan Hill in the finals) in front of my fans, family and friends was my amateur highlight.”

In addition to the aforementioned IBA World, Savarese also won the WBO Inter-Continental, and IBA Continental championships.

Beside former world champions Douglas and Witherspoon, as well as Mathis Jr., Savarese also defeated world-class heavyweights such as **David Bostice**, **Lance Whitaker** and Leo Nolan.
“This is special. I know most of the guys going in and it’s an honor to be amongst them. I fought six world champions (**Evander Holyfield**, **Mike Tyson**, Foreman, Witherspoon, Douglas, and **Riddick Bowe** in the amateurs. **Max Kellerman** (fellow NYSBHOF Class of 2020 inductee) once said I’m from the old-school of boxing. That’s good, I love that.”

Now 54, Savarese lives in Houston, Texas, where he runs Savarese Promotions, as well as two gyms, in which he trains white-collar boxers. “It’s going to be fun seeing family and friends from back since I first started in boxing,” Savarese concluded. “A ton of people are coming (to the induction dinner), including some from Houston. I turned pro there in 1990, moved back to New York between 2000-2008, and have lived in Houston since then.”

But Lou Savarese will always embody what it is to be a New York boxer.

Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger **Jorge Ahumada** (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion **Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera** (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger **Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore** (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner **Dennis “The Magician” Milton** (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger **Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa** (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight **Soldier Bartfield** (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight **Steve Belloise** (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) **Jimmy Goodrich** (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger **Tami Mauriello** (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist **Davey “Sensational” Moore** (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion **Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch**(74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Oneida judge **Don Ackerman**, Wantah, Long Island journalist/producer **Bobby Cassidy, Jr**., Buffalo manager **Rick Glaser**, Rockaway Beach journalist **Jack Hirsch**, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director **Dr. William Lathan**, Orangeburg judge **Julie Lederman**, Hyde Park referee **Ron Lipton**, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer **Kevin Rooney**.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor **Lester Bromberg**, New York City sportswriter **Dan Daniel**, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founderBobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer **Flash Gordan**, Manhattan journalistA.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder **Tony Mazzarella** and New York City manager **Dan Morgan**.

Each attending inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2020 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:**Randy Gordon**, **Henry Hascup**, **Don Majeski**, **Ron McNair**, **Jim Monteverde** and **Neil Terens**.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a full course dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 ordepcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available: half-page $100.00, full page $200.00 front and back inside covers are $400.00 each, and $500.00 for back cover. Mail checks and ads by the April 6 deadline to Bob Duffy, 1112 Whitewood Landing, Massapequa Park, NY 11762. Checks should be payable to NY Stare Boxing Hall of Fame, call Duffy to charge on a credit card.

**NEW YORK STATE BOXING HALL OF FAME**

**CLASS of 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS of 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

**CLASS OF 2019:** Wilfredo Benitez, Dick DiVeronica, Rogelio Tuur, Davey Vasquez, Michael Olajide, Monte Barrett, Jimmy Carter, Al “Bummy” Davis, Marty Servo, Roland LaStarza, Paddy DeMarco, Sid Terris, Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross, Don King, John McKaie, Steve Albert, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Bob Jackson, Dewey Fragetta, Johnny LoBianco, Wayne Kelly, Harry Hill, Jimmy Cannon, and Joe Dwyer.

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boxing

Meet the New York State Boxing HOF Class of 2020

February 1, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

Sunday, April 19, Induction Dinner

NEW YORK (January 27, 2020) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) has officially announced its 28-member Class of 2019. The ninth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 19, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“I am proud that we are continuing to honor New York men and woman in boxing for their dedication to the sport that they’ve served,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “This is our way to thank them all and let each new inductee know that we do remember all that they did and continue to do. The Class of 2020 is strong across the board, boxers and non-participants, continuing the NYSBHOF tradition of honoring our own.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves winner Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs), of Greenwood Lake; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Wantah, Long Island journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

There are a number of firsts regarding some Class of 2020 inductees: husband-wife – Dr. William and Melvina (Class of 2018) Lathan; daughter-father – Julie and Harold (Class of 2012) Lederman. Bobby Jr. and Bobby Cassidy, Sr. (2013) are the fourth son and father inducted into the NYSBHOF, but the first boxer/journalist combination. The others are boxers Floyd and Tracy Patterson, executive administrators Bobby and Murray Goodman, and referees Arthur, Sr. and Arthur Mercante, Jr.

Welch is going into the NHSBHOF as a boxer, but he also managed fellow Class of 2020 inductee Goodrich.

Each attending inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2020 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski,Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a full course dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available: half-page $100.00, full page $200.00 front and back inside covers are $400.00 each, and $500.00 for back cover. Mail checks and ads by the April 6 deadline to Bob Duffy, 1112 Whitewood Landing, Massapequa Park, NY 11762. Checks should be payable to NY Stare Boxing Hall of Fame, call Duffy to charge on a credit card.

NEW YORK STATE BOXING HALL OF FAME

CLASS OF 2019: Wilfredo Benitez, Dick DiVeronica, Rogelio Tuur, Davey Vasquez, Michael Olajide, Monte Barrett, Jimmy Carter, Al “Bummy” Davis, Marty Servo, Roland LaStarza, Paddy DeMarco, Sid Terris, Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross, Don King, John McKaie, Steve Albert, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Bob Jackson, Dewey Fragetta, Johnny LoBianco, Wayne Kelly, Harry Hill, Jimmy Cannon, and Joe Dwyer.

boxing

Dick DiVeronica embodies spirit of New York State Boxing Hall of Fame

April 23, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Induction Dinner This Sunday, April 28**

***Don King, Jimmy Cannon, Jimmy Carter & Wilfredo Benitez headline Class of 2019 inductees***

NEW YORK (April 22, 2019) – Canastota, New York welterweight Dick DiVeronica embodies the true spirit of the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame: New Yorkers honoring New Yorkers for their accomplishments and achievements in boxing.

DiVeronica will be part of a 24-member Class of 2019 inducted at the eighth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner this ***Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET)***, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“This is what the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame is about, honoring and remembering men and women who devoted their time and energy to our beloved sports,” NYSBHOF president **Bob Duffy** said. “We thank all of them and their families for sharing these special people with us.”

Limited tickets are still available, priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16), and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

DiVeronica fought professionally between 1958-1972, compiling a 44-31-1 (13 KOs) record as a welterweight contender. He was stopped only twice in 58 pro fights, once by NYSBHOF charter (2012) inductee **Emile Griffith**.

“This wasn’t expected (NYSBHOF induction) and we’re all super excited,” DiVeronica’s daughter Theresa commented. “We live in the same town as the International Boxing Hall of Fame, but my father will never be inducted into that Hall of Fame because he was never a world champion, only a contender. Billy Backus (undisputed world welterweight champion in 1971-72) is from Canastota, too. He and my father never fought because they didn’t want the hometown fighter losing. My father was a humble guy and we’re so happy to have him recognized by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.”

DiVeronica will now join Backus, who was a member of the Class of 2014, in the NYSBHOF. Boxing was incredibly important in DiVeronica life in and out of the ring. He started a boxing club in Germany while stationed there in the U.S. Army. He even met his wife at the famed 5^th St. Gym in Miami. Dick was staying there at the home of a relative, right next door to where his future wife lived. One day he asked her out and eventually they were married and starting a family back in Canastota.

“My family is so excited,” Theresa added. “We’ll be there for the induction ceremony, even my older sister from Germany.”

Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Bronx-born) three-time, two-division world champion **Wilfredo Benitez** (53-8-1, 31 KOs), (Hempstead) WBO super featherweight world champion **Rogelio Tuur** (46-4-1, 30 KOs), (Bronx) 1968 U.S. Olympian **Davey Vasquez** (19-15, 6 KOs), WBO super middleweight world title challengerMichael Olajide (27-5, 19 KOs), of Manhattan, and Queens’ world heavyweight title challenger **Monte Barrett** (35-11-2, 20 KOs).

Posthumous participants being inducted are (Bronx) three-time lightweight world championJimmy Carter (84-31-9, 34 KOs), Brooklyn welterweight **Al “Bummy” Davis** (65-10-4, 46 KOs), (Schenectady) world welterweight champion **Marty Servo** (47-4-2, 14 KOs), (Bronx) world heavyweight title challenger **Roland LaStarza** (57-9, 27 KOs), Brooklyn world lightweight champion **Paddy DeMarco** (75-26-3, 8 KOs )and Manhattan’s Lower East Side lightweights **Sid Terris** (94-13-5, 12 KOs) and **Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross** (35-10-4, 22 KOs).

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are New York City-based promoter **Don King**, Flushing judge **John McKaie**, referee **Arthur Mercante, Jr**. Brooklyn sportscasterSteve Albert, and Bronx trainer **Bob Jackson**.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Utica matchmaker **Dewey Fragetta**, Corona, Queens referee **Johnny LoBianco**, Garden City referee **Wayne Kelly**, Flushing sportsman **Harry Hill**, award-winning journalist **Jimmy Cannon**, of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, and NYSAC official/former NABF president **Joe Dwyer**, of Brooklyn.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2019 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:**Randy Gordon**, **Henry Hascup**, **Don Majeski**, **Ron McNair**, and **Neil Terens**.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

**NYSBHOF**

**CLASS of 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS of 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

boxing

Arthur Mercante, Jr. to join father in New York State Boxing Hall of Fame

March 22, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Arthur Mercante, Jr. was the third man in the ring for the March 13, 1999 world heavyweight title fight at Madison Square Garden between Evander Holyfield and Lennox Louis that ended in a draw

Sunday, April 28, Induction Dinner

***Don King, Jimmy Cannon, Jimmy Carter & Wilfredo Benitez headline Class of 2019 inductees***

NEW YORK (March 20, 2019) – International boxing referee **Arthur Mercante, Jr.** will join his father, the late **Arthur Mercante, Sr**., in the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) to become the first father-son inducted into the NYSBHOF.

The 24-member Class of 2019 will be inducted at the eighth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner on ***Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 28***, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Mercante, Jr. was an amateur boxer who lost in the 1976 New York Golden Gloves to **Juan LaPorte** (NYSBHOF inductee, Class of 2014). “I felt I beat him, and I wanted to turn pro,” Mercante, Jr. explained how he got into officiating. “My father said no as long as I lived in his house, but he suggested I try referring.”

Mercante, Jr. started refereeing in 1979 in the amateurs and moved up to the pro ranks in 1984. He has referred 336 fights, including 72 title fights. Mercante, Jr. has some wonderful memories, including a humorous story in which he was accidentally punched.

“I was referring a fight (unified world super middleweight title fight, on Jan. 14, 2017 at Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn) between **Badou Jack** and **James DeGale**,” Mercante, Jr. remembered. “I heard the 10-second warning at the end of the sixth round and started counting 5-4-3-2-1. At the same time, Jack hit me in the face with a left hook, and I slipped. Beau asked me if I was alright. I said I was fine. Later, he said that he had hit me with a good shot and that I owned him a good shot. After the fight, he told me I can take a good shot.”

Mercante, Jr. believed the key to be a good referee is breaking apart fighters in clinches and staying out of the picture, because a fight isn’t about the referee.

One of his most memorable moments of his career was working the same show as his father, who was 81 time, for the first time in 1981 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Father worked the main event between **Roy Jones, Jr**. and **David Telesco**, Mercante, Jr. handled a fight between **David Izon** and **Derrick Jefferson**.

Now, Mercante, Jr. is heading into the NYSBHOF to join his father. “I never thought I’d be in any Hall of Fame,” Mercante, Jr. commented. “When the call came January 27th (2019) from **Bob Duffy** (NYBHOF president), it couldn’t have come at a more special day, because my father would have turned 99 that day.

“It’s an honor, especially going in with this class. I worked a fight between Michael Olajide and Iran Barkley and Michael is getting in this year. Don King, of course, and I worked a lot of shows with Wayne Kelly. Ring 8 has always been a great organization. I’d like to thank everyone involved.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Bronx-born) three-time, two-division world champion **Wilfredo Benitez** (53-8-1, 31 KOs), Canastota welterweight **Dick DiVeronica** (44-13-1, 13 KOs), (Hempstead) WBO super featherweight world championRogelio Tuur (46-4-1, 30 KOs), (Bronx) 1968 U.S. Olympian **Davey Vasquez** (19-15, 6 KOs), WBO super middleweight world title challenger **Michael Olajide** (27-5, 19 KOs), of Manhattan, and Queens’ world heavyweight title challenger **Monte Barrett** (35-11-2, 20 KOs).

Posthumous participants being inducted are (Bronx) three-time lightweight world championJimmy Carter (84-31-9, 34 KOs), Brooklyn welterweight **Al “Bummy” Davis** (65-10-4, 46 KOs), (Schenectady) world welterweight champion **Marty Servo** (47-4-2, 14 KOs), (Bronx) world heavyweight title challenger **Roland LaStarza** (57-9, 27 KOs), Brooklyn world lightweight champion **Paddy DeMarco** (75-26-3, 8 KOs )and Manhattan’s Lower East Side lightweights **Sid Terris** (94-13-5, 12 KOs) and **Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross** (35-10-4, 22 KOs).

In addition to Mercante, Jr., other living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are New York City-based promoter **Don King**, Flushing judge **John McKaie**, Brooklyn sportscaster **Steve Albert**, and Bronx trainer **Bob Jackson**.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Utica matchmaker **Dewey Fragetta**, Corona, Queens referee **Johnny LoBianco**, Garden City referee **Wayne Kelly**, Flushing sportsman **Harry Hill**, award-winning journalist **Jimmy Cannon**, of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, and NYSAC official/former NABF president **Joe Dwyer**, of Brooklyn.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2019 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:**Randy Gordon**, **Henry Hascup**, **Don Majeski**, **Ron McNair**, and **Neil Terens**.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

**NYSBHOF**

**CLASS of 2012**: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

**CLASS of 2013:** Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

**CLASS OF 2014:** Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

**CLASS OF 2015:** Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

Tickets are priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 ordepcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

**ABOUT RING 8:** Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, **Jack Grebelsky**, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

boxing, Ring 8

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2019

February 1, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Sunday, April 28, Induction Dinner

Don King, Jimmy Cannon, Jimmy Carter & Wilfredo Benitez
headline new inductees

NEW YORK (January 30, 2019) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) has announced its 24-member Class of 2019. The eighth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 28, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“We’re excited to continue honoring New Yorkers who helped boxing throughout the entire Empire State,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “This year’s inductees did so much to help boxing in New York, whether they were fighters or non-participants. Our goal is to continue to honor New Yorkers in boxing for many more years.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Bronx-born) three-time, two-division world champion Wilfredo Benitez (53-8-1, 31 KOs), Canastota welterweight Dick DiVeronica (44-13-1, 13 KOs), (Hempstead) WBO super featherweight world champion Rogelio Tuur (46-4-1, 30 KOs), (Bronx) 1968 U.S. Olympian Davey Vasquez (19-15, 6 KOs), WBO super middleweight world title challenger Michael Olajide (27-5, 19 KOs), of Manhattan, and Queens’ world heavyweight title challenger Monte Barrett (35-11-2, 20 KOs).

Posthumous participants being inducted are (Bronx) three-time lightweight world champion Jimmy Carter (84-31-9, 34 KOs), Brooklyn welterweight Al “Bummy” Davis (65-10-4, 46 KOs), (Schenectady) world welterweight champion Marty Servo (47-4-2, 14 KOs), (Bronx) world heavyweight title challenger Roland LaStarza (57-9, 27 KOs), Brooklyn world lightweight champion Paddy DeMarco (75-26-3, 8 KOs) and Manhattan’s Lower East Side lightweights Sid Terris (94-13-5, 12 KOs) and Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross (35-10-4, 22 KOs).

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are New York City-based promoter Don King, Flushing judge John McKaie, Brooklyn sportscaster Steve Albert, referee Arthur Mercante, Jr., and Bronx trainer Bob Jackson.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Utica matchmaker Dewey Fragetta, Corona, Queens referee Johnny LoBianco, Garden City referee Wayne Kelly, Flushing sportsman Harry Hill, award-winning journalist Jimmy Cannon, of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, and NYSAC official/former NABF president Joe Dwyer, of Brooklyn.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2019 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, and Neil Terens.

NYSBHOF

Tickets are priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 ordepcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need. Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person. r

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Tag Archives: New York State Boxing Hall of Fame

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New York State Boxing HOF & Ring 8 establish fund to assist boxers and boxing personnel in New York

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Meet the New York State Boxing HOF Class of 2020

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New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2019

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