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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 AT
BOXING HALL OF FAME A "KNOCKOUT"
Legendary world champion makes first visit to Hall of Fame
CANASTOTA, NY – OCTOBER 16, 2004 – The International Boxing Hall of Fame's cocktail reception highlighting special guest of honor Thomas (Hitman) Hearns at the Hall of Fame Events Pavilion on October 15th was a "knockout" for all in attendance.
A capacity crowd of fans from throughout the United States (including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio) and as far away as Canada, enjoyed food and beverages, silent and live auctions, video highlights from Hearns' exciting career and the opportunity to meet one of boxing's superstars. Throughout the evening Hearns graciously signed autographs and posed for pictures.
"The Hall of Fame was thrilled to welcome Tommy to Canastota for the first time," said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. "He is one of the most exciting and popular fighters in the history of boxing."
During the evening's program, Hearns was presented with several gifts from the Hall of Fame. Also, Canastota mayor Todd Rouse presented the "Hitman" with a key to the Village of Canastota.
Prior to the cocktail reception, Hearns toured the Hall of Fame Museum and enjoyed the many exhibits on boxing's history, including the boxing trunks he wore in his fight with Juan Roldan (October 29, 1987) that are proudly on display.
The following day, Hearns greeted fans at the Hall of Fame Museum and also had his fist impression cast for future display in the Museum. The "Hitman", who turns 47 on October 18th, was also seranaded with "Happy Birthday" by his fans when a cake was brought out to celebrate his birthday.
Boxing fans also had the opportunity to visit with Hearns' son, Ronald, who is undefeated (7-0 with 5 KOs) as a professional middleweight.
A special thank you to Hall of Fame supporters who helped organize the event. Also sincere thanks to event sponsors HBO Sports, McCadam Cheese, Everlast, Pepsi, Miller Lite, SHOWTIME, Gary Shaw Productions, Foxwoods Resort & Casino, Classic Entertainment & Sports, WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF, Basilio Sausage, Aramatic Refreshment Services, Inc., Madison County Tourism and Turning Stone Resort & Casino. All proceeds from the event benefited the Boxing Hall of Fame.
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