Hearns Reception Planned

International Boxing Hall of Fame 1 Hall of Fame Drive Canastota, NY 13032 P: 315.697.7095 F: 315.697.5356

THOMAS (HITMAN) HEARNS

RECEPTION PLANNED AT

BOXING HALL OF FAME ON OCT. 15th

Legendary world champion to be

special guest of honor at cocktail reception

CANASTOTA, NY - SEPTEMBER 19, 2005 - Legendary world champion Thomas (Hitman) Hearns will be the guest of honor at a special cocktail reception at the Boxing Hall of Fame Event Pavilion on Saturday, October 15th. Hearns will be making his first visit to “Boxing's Hometown.”

“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.

“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.

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.

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