I hope he has a great time also. It would be great. I have never been to the one in New York, but that would fun walking around and seeing the fighters and the displays and the history of boxing.
Considering the IBHOF's (presumed) lack of substantial funding, they do a great job. And, it is always fun to speak with the fighters. So many of them, even ones with savage reputations in the ring, end up being some of the nicest people when you meet them face to face.
That trip is on my bucket list. I hope all who go have a great time. And thanks @PernellSweetPea for the wonderful story. Love me some JJ. BTW, where does one fly into if they are going to Canastota? Syracuse?
I found the same thing also. Boxers are one of the nicest people compared to many other sports. They have been humbled and know the ups and downs of life. Everytime I went to the Hall of Fame dinner I felt better when I left. I would probably feel the same at the one in New York.
I generally don't like to be that obtrusive on the boxers' time. I like just having a conversation with them, having them recount memorable fights, and get their opinion of newer fighters. And, if they are down for drinking (I know Leon Spinks will be), buy them a drink. If somehow a video becomes an organic reality, I will certainly share my interview on this site.
Bitter rivals Barrera and Morales will be there. Both Carbajal and Gonzalez will be there. Characters like Iran "The Blade" Barkley and "Irish" Mickey Ward will be there. What's not to like?
I’m going to Canastota next year for certain. I always said I’ll make my first trip there when Juan Manuel Marquez gets the call which he will next year.
I wish the IBOF would get a donation to build a small 100 seat movie like theater and strike a deal with ESPN classic or a private film collector to show a few of their rare fights with profit splitting. Then some of the rare fights could be viewed. Our corse a metal detector and no phones policy with a seuciryt guy would be needed. IMO, this could work, and increase the draw to the boxing hall of fame.
Roberto Duran's son is fighting on the Zab Judah undercard. So, it is highly likely the great "Hands of Stone" will be there that weekend.
The guy he is fighting, Cletis Seldin, is crude as ****. But, he can punch and will come to fight. I am hoping he gives Judah hell.
Bump. Just making one last check to see if anyone else from ESB is going to make the trek this weekend. Cheers, Smokin' Bert