CANASTOTA, NY – OCTOBER 13, 2005 – Legendary world champion Thomas “Hitman” Hearns will make his first visit to “Boxing’s Hometown” on October 15th & 16th where he will be the guest of honor at a special cocktail reception at the Hall of Fame’s Event Pavilion on Saturday, October 15th.
“The Hall of Fame is extremely excited about welcoming Tommy Hearns to Canastota,” said Hall of Fame director Ed Brophy. “It’s a great opportunity for fans to meet one of boxing’s superstars.”
The evening will run from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and consist of photograph and autograph opportunities, food and beverages, silent and live auctions, and fight films highlighting Hearns’ career.
Tickets for the cocktail reception are $50 and can be purchased by calling the Boxing Hall of Fame at 315-697-7095. Only a limited number of tickets will be available and tickets must be purchased in advance. All proceeds will benefit the Boxing Hall of Fame.
“This promises to be an unforgettable night for both Tommy and his many fans,” said Brophy.
A native of Memphis, TN, Hearns boxed out of Detroit’s famed Kronk Gym. Behind a dynamite right hand, “Hitman” won world titles in multiple divisions, including the WBA welterweight title in 1980, the WBC light middleweight title in 1982, the WBC light heavyweight title and WBC middleweight title in 1987, the WBO super middleweight title in 1988 and the WBA light heavyweight title in 1991. Hearns was twice named “Fighter of the Year” (1980 and 1984) and the first round of his 1985 bout with Marvelous Marvin Hagler is regarded as one of the greatest rounds in boxing history. Hearns returned to the ring in July 2005 and now boasts a pro record of 60-5-1 (47KOs) that includes wins over Roberto Duran, Virgil Hill and Hall of Famers Pipino Cuevas and Wilfred Benitez.
Hearns will also greet fans at the Boxing Hall of Fame Museum the following day, Sunday, October 16th, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
For more information on Hearns’ appearance, please call the Hall of Fame at 315-697-7095.