(C) Copyright 1997,1998,1999,2000 All rights reserved
International Boxing Hall of Fame 1 Hall of Fame Drive Canastota, NY 13032 P: 315.697.7095 F: 315.697.5356
RICKY HATTON RECEPTION AT BOXING HALL OF FAME A "KNOCKOUT"
Two-division world champion makes first visit to
"Boxing's Hometown"
CANASTOTA, NY – SEPTEMBER 14, 2006 – The International Boxing Hall of Fame's VIP reception highlighting special guest of honor Ricky (The Hitman) Hatton at the Hall of Fame Events Pavilion on September 13th was a "knockout" for all in attendance.
A capacity crowd of fans from throughout the United States (including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Florida) and Canada enjoyed food and beverages, silent auction, video highlights from Hatton's exciting career and the opportunity to meet one of boxing's superstars. Throughout the evening Hatton graciously signed autographs and posed for pictures.
"The Hall was thrilled to welcome Ricky to Canastota from England for the first time," said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. "He is one of the most exciting and popular fighters in the world today."
During the evening's program, Canastota Mayor Todd Rouse presented "The Hitman" with a key to the Village of Canastota. Town of Lenox Supervisor Rocky DiVeronica welcomed Hatton to the community. Hatton was also presented with several gifts from the Hall.
Canastota's two-division world champion and Hall of Famer Carmen Basilio was on hand to greet "The Hitman" and welcome him to his hometown.
Hatton, who was accompanied by his promoter Dennis Hobson, agent Paul Speak and associate Simon Hodgkinson, discussed his next bout scheduled for December or January on HBO's World Championship Boxing.
Prior to the VIP reception, Hatton toured the Hall of Fame Museum and enjoyed the many exhibits on boxing's history.
A special thank you to Hall of Fame supporters who helped organize the event. Also sincere thanks to the evening's sponsors including First Comp, HBO Sports, McCadam Cheese, Everlast, Miller Lite, Madison County Tourism, Alliance Bank, and Freihofer's. All proceeds from the event benefited the Hall of Fame.
Click on thumbnail to view larger.
