Boxing Hall Prepares for Induction Weekend

The International Boxing Hall of Fame will host the 23rd Annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend in Canastota, New York on June 7- 10th. With many exciting events planned, there will be something for everyone in “Boxing’s Hometown.” With less than four months remaining before the bell rings to kick off Hall of Fame Weekend festivities, the Hall’s staff and team of volunteers in Canastota are already busy planning details for the celebration. According to Hall officials, nearly 300 volunteers and many community organizations will contribute their time and effort to make the annual Induction Weekend a success.

Fans line the streets for the popular Parade of Champions that takes place

prior to the Official Induction Ceremony during the annual HOF Weekend

“The Hall of Fame Weekend is an opportunity for everyone who loves boxing to celebrate the spirit of the sport in ‘Boxing’s Hometown,’” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “Canastota looks forward to again hosting boxing’s highlight weekend of the year.”

Events planned for the weekend include a banquet, a heavyweight bash, parade, golf tournament, boxing autograph card show, cocktail party and the Official Induction Ceremony honoring the Class of 2012. Living inductees to be honored at the Official Induction Ceremony on Sunday, June 10th are multi-division champion Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, two-division champion Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, “Let’s Get Ready To Rumble” ring announcer Michael Buffer, trainer Freddie Roach, broadcaster Al Bernstein and journalist Michael Katz. Posthumous inductees will also be honored.

Tickets for all events are moving quickly and capacity crowds are again anticipated for June.

“Boxing fans from throughout the United States and Canada and as far away as Australia, Mexico and England have already reserved tickets and made hotel accommodations for the weekend,” said Brophy.

An impressive list of over 40 boxing greats from the United States and abroad will participate in weekend festivities. Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard, “Irish” Micky Ward, Johnny Tapia and Ken Norton are among the stars already confirmed to attend.