CANASTOTA, NY (WSYR-TV) - Thirteen boxing greats were inducted in to the
Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota Sunday.
Fans flew in from across the country and from all over the world. The fan favorite this year was Thomas “Hitman” Hearns who ended his career with 61 wins, five losses, one draw and 48 total knockouts.
“It just runs chills through my body,” said Thomas Hearns while accepting his Hall of Fame certificate and ring. “I never expected it. I just trained to be the best. I trained to give my best every time I walk through the ring to fight.”
Hearns had many excited fans waiting to get his autograph.
“I’m here this weekend for Tommy Hearns,” said avid fan Bob Klein. “It’s his weekend and I’m glad that he’s having this weekend. I love him.”
“I’ve been a childhood fan of Tommy Hearns since I can remember. 11 years old and I’m 33 now,” said boxing fan Joe Martelli. “My stepdad used to have him on all the time, and I just grew up watching him.”
5 other legends spoke to fans at the induction: Journalist Michael Katz, Analyst Al Bernstein, Boxer and trainer Freddie Roach, and the first African American flyweight and super flyweight champion in history Mark Johnson.
“This is truly a dream come true,” Johnson said.
To end the weekend of fight night history, the beloved ring announcer Michael Buffer and inductee pleased the crowd with his signature phrase:
“For the thousands in attendance, and the millions around the world who wish they could be here,” said Buffer, “Ladies and Gentlemen, let’s get ready to rumble!”
