CANASTOTA, N.Y. (NCC NEWS) — The International Boxing Hall of Fame honored its Class of 2024 this past weekend in Canastota celebrated as “Boxing’s Hometown.” The four-day celebration was filled with a variety of events, including ringside talks, a fight night, a 5K fun run, a banquet, a parade, and the induction ceremony.
This year’s induction marked the 35th anniversary of the Hall of Fame, paying tribute to the sport’s legendary figures and their contributions. The Class of 2024 featured prominent names such as Ricky Hatton, Ana Maria Torres, and Michael Moorer, among others.
Shannon Briggs, a 2022 Hall of Fame inductee and former lineal heavyweight champion, reflected on his journey and the significance of being recognized.
“When I began the sport, I dreamed about something like this, and it actually happened so it resonates with me,” Briggs said. “I want people to realize that dreams come true.”
Ricky Hatton, one of the 2024 inductees and a former junior welterweight and welterweight champion, concluded his illustrious career with a record of 45 wins and three losses. Hatton said he was elated with a sense of fulfillment upon receiving the honor.
“When I got a phone call that I was gonna be inducted to the Hall of Fame with the Muhammad Alis… to think my name is going to be on the wall with them, it’s probably one of the best things I have ever achieved in boxing,” Hatton says.
Ana Maria Torres, who made her debut as a super flyweight in 1999, spoke passionately about the growing recognition of women in boxing. Torres highlighted the progress made and the promising future for female fighters.
“It was a bumpy road, but now it’s up thanks to the job that I did,” Torres says. “And now we have great women fights like Amanda Serrano vs. Katie Taylor. Now it’s a wonderful future for women’s boxing.”
The weekend’s events drew a large crowd of boxing enthusiasts and supporters, who participated in and enjoyed the festivities. Ringside talks provided fans with insights from boxing legends, while the fight night showcased bouts that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
The 5K fun run attracted participants of all ages, promoting health and fitness within the community. The banquet and parade celebrated the achievements of the inductees, creating a festive atmosphere throughout Canastota.
The induction ceremony was the pinnacle of the weekend, where the Class of 2024 was formally enshrined into the Hall of Fame. Each inductee shared their journey, struggles, and triumphs, inspiring the next generation of boxers.
As the weekend concluded, attendees left with a deeper appreciation for the sport and its enduring legacy. The celebration not only honored the legends of the past but also highlighted the aspirations of future champions, who continue to train and dream of their own Hall of Fame moments.
