Carmine singing the National Anthem.

Paulette Balog toll the bell 10 times in the memory of Johnny Bos.

President Duffy introduced Boxing Historian, Writer Mike DeLisa, who talked on a few books that he and Johnny Bos wrote including “Who Lies There?” A Compendium of Boxer’s Obituaries. Mike brought several books for Ring 8 to sell and all the proceeds will go to the Funeral of Johnny Bos.

Billy Strigaro introduced Joanne Hutchins who talked on her charity (MomsWhoKick.Com) on Beast Cancer. Moms Who Kick® is a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research and in support of women’s health. Their mission: To Inspire, Motivate, and Empower women to choose a healthy lifestyle.
The ‘Moms Who Kick’ firmly believe that physical fitness coupled with a nutritious diet can enable recovery and may prevent certain cancers. Their goal is to raise awareness and support in order to make a difference in the fight to find a cure.

President Duffy introduced a Women Boxing Promoter, Diane Fisher. She talked on how she got started and that she has a show at the Westchester County Center, White Plains, New York on Friday, May 24th.

President Duffy introduced Patricia Alcivar who recently won the vacant USA New York State female flyweight title. Patricia talked on how proud she was being the Champion.

President Duffy talked on the recent Fight that Ring 8 Board member Vinny Maddalone had at the Paramount Theatre.
Jerry Glick reporting from ringside: Joe DeGuardia and his able matchmaker Ron Katz put on a great show that brought in a full house to Huntington, LI, on a stormy night at his favorite venue, The Paramount Theater.

In the main event Vinny Maddalone, 229, was outweighed by about 100 pounds against Richard Carmack, 324, and used the first two rounds to work the body against his somewhat placid opponent. Looking bulky and strong, Carmack never let his hands go.

The popular Long Island heavyweight pounded Carmack’s ample midriff with his left and targeted his head with his right. Carmack began to cover up after absorbing a hard right and finally fell into the ropes where referee Chiarantano saved him from further punishment at 2:57 of round three. Maddalone’s record improved to 37-8 (28 KOs), as Carmack’s lost for the first time as a pro and is now 12-1 (10 KOs).

After the win Vinny said that Carmack was reluctant to let his hands go, “Because he knew that I would counter everything he threw my way.” Not sure exactly why, but Carmack had a good opportunity to pick up a nice “W” but was reluctant to make the effort. I called him “placid” and that was his demeanor from the opening bell. He looked ferocious but did little to act that way.
Ring 8 had 20 members in attendance and Vinny thanked them for there support.

President Denise Saddler, the daughter of Sandy Saddler, thanked everyone who had a part in the NYBHOF which Inducted her father last month.
BWAA President Jack Hirsch introduced Zachary Ochoa, a junior welterweight who is 4-0 (3). Zachary talked on his career.

Ron Ross talked on Emile Griffith and that a St. Louis Opera Company will be doing a play on his Emile’s life based on Ron’s book “Nine Ten and Out! The Two Worlds of Emile Griffith”.

Former World Featherweight Champion Juan Laporte, who was once trained by Emile, talked on Emile as well. He also talked on Carmelo Negron, who shortly after an operation to remove a stomach tumor died of advanced dementia and stomach cancer on May 10, 2013. He was buried in Hartford, Connecticut, on May 17, 2013. Juan stated that he has several gloves signed by many World Champions that he wants to raffle them off and the proceeds going to Carmelo’s family.

Ring Announcer and the voice of the Brooklyn Nets David Diamante talked on the up-coming ESPN Boxing Show this Friday and the Boxing Show at Foxswoods. He also talked on Boyd Melson who won his recent bout and his fight for spinal cord research.
President Duffy introduced all the celebrates and new members that were in the room.
Tribute to Johny Bos:

Don Majeski stated that it was Johnny Bos who brought him into boxing back in 1968, when he went to the Chuck Wepner/Jerry Tomasetti fight at Felt Forum. He stated that Johnny did everything in excess.

Herb Goldman talked on how Johnny Bos came up.

Billy Giles stated that Bos should have run Boxing, as he was the Best Matchmaker New York ever had.

Harold Lederman talked on how he met Bos along with Flash Gordon many years ago.

Ron Scott Stevens stated that when he first came into boxing people stated that he has to talk to Johnny Bos. He talked on Johnny as a Ring Announcer, Matchmaker and how he made a lot of Gerry Cooney fights. Ron stated that when you called Johnny, you would have to listen to 10 minutes of music before you could leave a message. He also stated that Johnny had a Great Rock & Roll voice.

Randy Gordon talked to Johnny about a week before he died and Johnny talked about all the people that just talked and then some. Randy told of a story when Johnny wore a Mink coat, plaid pants and a way out tie and then ran into Bert Sugar. Bert asked Johnny what’s with the getup? Johnny fired back by saying “yea and your such a fashion plate”. Randy talked on the Arturo Gatti/Joey Gamache fight and how Johnny was driven out of New York. Randy stated that Johnny died of a broken heart, But now he is with Angelo Dundee, Bert Sugar and others.

Rod Jacobs talked on how he met Johnny. He wanted to fight as a Pro But the Commission stated that he had to start as an Amateur. Rod was 35 years old at the time But he then had one Amateur and got his Pro license. Johnny stated that he had a fight for him, which was scheduled on his 36th birthday. When the Ring Announcer started to anounce him, he said in this corner Golden Glove Champion, Rod Jacobs. Rod was shocked because he only had that one Amateur fight and never even fought in the Golden Gloves.

Shawn Sullivan who was representing Lou DeBella, who was out of town. Shawn stated that Lou was sorry he couldn’t be hear and that Lou viewed Johhny as his mentor on how to manage fighters. A lot of early DeBella fighters were Bos fighters. He would talk to Johnny 2-3 o’clock in the morning at times and it broke his heart when he found out about his passing.

Ron Ross goes back to the 1960′s with Johnny, when he and Flash Gordon use to sell there programs. John Condon, President of MSG didn’t want them to sell any programs because the Garden couldn’t sell there’s. One time a kid thought Johnny was Hulk Hogan, and Johnny went through the routie as he really was. Ron then read a few articles that Bos wrote and stated that Johnny fought for the game.

President Duffy talked on Bos and why Ring 8 was doing this Tribute to him. He stated that it was Don Majeski and Herb Goldman’s idea. Johnny died pennyless and had no money for a funeral, which cost $3,800. All the money collected here tonight will go to his funeral and if anyone would like to help, please make the check out to the “Johnny Bos Fund”.
So far many have donated including Jimmy Winters and Lou DeBella, Plus Ring 8 has donated $500 and also stated that any new member that paid the membership dues tonight, will go to the Fund.
A Final 10 Count was given by Paulette Balog in the memory of Johnny Bos.

Frank Pena talked on our Picnic which will be held at Glen Cove on Sunday, July 14th.

Ring 8 and the U S metro honored Vince Shomo at the golden glove finals at the Brooklyn Barclays Center with a special achievement award supplied by ring 8…..a special thanks to our members, Frank Pena  , Sparkle Lee and Robin Taylor , along with Yvonne Williams, president of the metro and Golden Glove director, Brian Adams, who gave our friend and member a night he will never forget.

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, June 18th. There will be no meetings in July or August.
The Winner of the 50/50 won a signed NYBHOF Poster.

NEW YORK, NY (May 20, 2013) – Ring 8 will pay tribute to the late, great matchmaker Johnny Bos tomorrow night (Tuesday, May 21 starting at 7:00 p.m. ET) at historic Waterfront Crabhouse, in Long Island City, New York.

Many of Bos’ friends, family and associates have been invited to attend tomorrow;s Ring 8 monthly meeting in an effort to raise funds to help defray the costs of Bos’ funeral. One-hundred percent of all proceeds raised tomorrow from new Ring 8 membership fees ($30.00 per year entitles each member to a buffet dinner at Ring 8 monthly meetings), as well as any group or individual donations, will go directly towards Bos’ funeral expenses.

The eccentric Bos – known as “The Wizard of Bos” – helped develop the careers of countless boxers over the years, particularly in New York, as a matchmaker and advisor. Some of “Bos’ boxers” include Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield. Pernell Whitaker, Gerry Cooney, Paulie Malignaggi, Joey Gamache, Yuri Foreman, Jameel McCline and Tracy Harris Patterson.

“We just became aware of this situation (funeral expense needs) over the weekend and Ring 8 wanted to help,” Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said. “All monies raised will go directly to Johnny’s family towards his funeral expenses. Ring 8 member and Johnny’s close friend, Don Majeski, was the driving force in this effort.

“Anybody from New York who has been involved in boxing for the past 25 years or more, if asked to identify one person in New York boxing, would say Johnny Bos. He was a boxing icon who everybody knew and respected. He was a tough guy to make matches with, though, because he always knew what he was doing. Johnny Bos was a great guy and Ring 8 is privileged to pay tribute to him.”

ABOUT RING 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, the third Tuesday of every month, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press, 978.664.4482, bobtfcp@hotmail.com

Article by Boxing News 24

NEW YORK (April 30, 2013) – More than 300 people attended this past Sunday’s second annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York, as 20 inductees from the Class of 2013 were honored.

“This is the second year for the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame,” NYSBHOF and Ring 8 president Bob Duffy explained. “This is for New York but it could be the Brooklyn Boxing Hall of Fame with so many of this year’s inductees from Brooklyn. The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame is for New Yorkers and one by New Yorkers. All of these inductees are responsible New Yorkers. We remember their services from the 40s, 50s and 60s, when boxing was so big in New York, and it’s big again today. A lot of people in the audience will be inducted for years to come. The dream of Tony Mazzarella was to have the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame – New Yorkers for New Yorkers.”

The 2013 NYSBHOF inductees were (participants) Jack Dempsey (61-6-9, 50 KOs), Johnny Dundee (83-32-20, 17 KOs), Sandy Saddler (144-16-2, 103 KOs), Maxie Rosenbloom (207-39-26 (19 KOs), Joey Archer (61-6-9, 50 KOs), Iran Barkley (43-19-1 (27 KOs), Mark Breland (35-3-1, 25 KOs), Bobby Cassidy (59-16-3, 27 KOs); Doug Jones (30-10-1, 20 KOs), Junior Jones (50-6, 28 KOs), James “Buddy” McGirt (73-6-1, 48 KOs), Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (50-8-1, 39 KOs); (non-participants) Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant; Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard, and Don Dunphy,

Each inductee received a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.

U.S. Congressman Peter King (R-NY), a strong supporter of boxing who introduced his close friend, Bobby Cassidy, was a guest speaker. “I congratulate all of the honorees today for their outstanding careers, especially my friend, Bobby Cassidy, for all he’s done,” Rep. King said. “I introduced, with Senator McCain, a bill (Muhammad Ali Act) to protect fighters and now we’ve introduced another bill asking the President (Obama) to pardon Jack Johnson. It’s an injustice.”

The inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members, including Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years, in order to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers.

Dave Diamante served once again as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Special guests in attendance included Vito Antuofermo, Luis Colazzo, Vinny Maddalone, Renaldo Snipes, Leona Brown, and Mia St. John.

Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

Quotes from some of the inductees and their pictures are below. All pictures by Peter Frutkoff.

Junior Jones: “There are a lot of great fighters up here. This is a great event recognizing New Yorkers. I want to thank all of the people who were part of my team.”

Iran Barkley: “Teddy Brenner basically asked me, ‘You think you can fight.’ I told him I was going to be champion of the world and he said, ‘You’re never going to be champion.’ You don’t know how made he made me that day and I then beat everybody he put in against me.

“When I fought (Thomas) Hearns, nobody thought I could beat him, but I wasn’t afraid. I’m a Bronx guy and I was used to getting hits by bricks and bats. I won with blood, sweat and tears. I said to get ready to pick him up and carry him out.”

Tony Graziano: “It’s an honor being here with all these greats and in the New York Hall of Fame.”

Bobby Cassidy: “I truly appreciate and I’m honored to be standing here today. I started boxing in 1963. Teddy Brenner said I was a million-to-one shot but his long-shot paid off. Like a lot of guys, boxing saved me. It was go in the ring or go to jail. Everything I have is through boxing. I was sent all over the world. I was a fighter; just tell me where to show up. I never turned down a fight. I fought six opponents who fought for the title and beat four of them. All I ever wanted was to fight for the title. I never fought for the title and that really hurt me more than anything and I had 80 pro fights and 500 stitches. I’m a fighter and always will be. Standing up here makes up for never getting a title shot. I’m truly honored.”

Mark Breland:”It’s good to be here with all these guys. I’ve always looked up to, and I don’t know if he knows it, Tony Santana. I sparred with Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. It’s an honor to be here and accept this award. I had a lot of fights. I enjoy boxing; it’s a lot of fun. All my years in boxing, I always had a great manager, Shelly Finkel. He’s family.”

Shelly Finkel: Anyone in the sport knows there are two families – one at home and the fighters. Somebody once asked me, when all is said and done, how do I want to be remembered? That I cared about my fighters. There have been so many incredible moments in the ring. I’ve had the greatest career with my fighters on the ring but, after the fighting, that I could help my fighters.”

James “Buddy” McGirt: “This group of fighters up here, you don’t understand, it’ll be 100 years before you’d find a group of fighters like this. In 1987, Iran Barkley took to training camp. He didn’t need to do that and I was just another expense. But it helped me become world champion. In 1989, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad came to gym in Las Vegas everyday for five weeks to watch me train. As a fighter there are certain things you never forget. On November 29th, 1991, Eddie yelled my name and gave me a thumbs-up. It was the greatest night of my career. Everybody was yelling and what I remember was Eddie yelling, ‘McGirt.’”

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad: “This is special to me. I am very appreciative and humbled to put me in the New York Hall of Fame with all these terrific fighters. But, if you invite me again to another festive occasion like this, please (jokingly) don’t sit me between McGirt and Breland. They’re friends of mine, like family. Iran and I won many titles together. I told him that, if he listened to me, he’d be a three-time world champion. He looked at me like I was crazy. I blew it….he became four-time world champion.

“Now, I have my newest world champion, Ishe Smith, and Chad Dawson. I thank God for allowing me to transfer any skills, what I learned from my former trainers, to my students. I’ve had 18 world champions in a young career. After I retired, I didn’t know what to do, and Bob Arum said I could train because he knew I was working with Mike McCallum, who became world champion. I brought Floyd Mayweather his first world champion (Smith). I’m a part of the ‘Money Team’ and thank him for having the trust in me to train some of his young fighters.

“This is like winning a world championship. I love this!”

Pictures taken by Stan Janousek  (professional fight name Stanley Yanachek)

Click on any picture to make it larger:

Following pictures by Ms. Pattee Mak

Click on any picture to make it larger:

Quotes and photos: New York State Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony

By Bad Left Hook on Apr 30 2013, 11:43a 1

Junior Jones, Iran Barkley, and Tony Graziano were among those inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame this year.

Junior Jones: “There are a lot of great fighters up here. This is a great event recognizing New Yorkers. I want to thank all of the people who were part of my team.”

Iran Barkley: “Teddy Brenner basically asked me, ‘You think you can fight.’ I told him I was going to be champion of the world and he said, ‘You’re never going to be champion.’ You don’t know how mad he made me that day and I then beat everybody he put in against me.

“When I fought (Thomas) Hearns, nobody thought I could beat him, but I wasn’t afraid. I’m a Bronx guy and I was used to getting hits by bricks and bats. I won with blood, sweat and tears. I said to get ready to pick him up and carry him out.”

Tony Graziano: “It’s an honor being here with all these greats and in the New York Hall of Fame.”

Bobby Cassidy: “I truly appreciate and I’m honored to be standing here today. I started boxing in 1963. Teddy Brenner said I was a million-to-one shot but his long-shot paid off. Like a lot of guys, boxing saved me. It was go in the ring or go to jail. Everything I have is through boxing. I was sent all over the world. I was a fighter; just tell me where to show up. I never turned down a fight. I fought six opponents who fought for the title and beat four of them. All I ever wanted was to fight for the title. I never fought for the title and that really hurt me more than anything and I had 80 pro fights and 500 stitches. I’m a fighter and always will be. Standing up here makes up for never getting a title shot. I’m truly honored.”

Mark Breland: “It’s good to be here with all these guys. I’ve always looked up to, and I don’t know if he knows it, Tony Santana. I sparred with Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. It’s an honor to be here and accept this award. I had a lot of fights. I enjoy boxing; it’s a lot of fun. All my years in boxing, I always had a great manager, Shelly Finkel. He’s family.”

Shelly Finkel: Anyone in the sport knows there are two families – one at home and the fighters. Somebody once asked me, when all is said and done, how do I want to be remembered? That I cared about my fighters. There have been so many incredible moments in the ring. I’ve had the greatest career with my fighters on the ring but, after the fighting, that I could help my fighters.”

James “Buddy” McGirt: “This group of fighters up here, you don’t understand, it’ll be 100 years before you’d find a group of fighters like this. In 1987, Iran Barkley took to training camp. He didn’t need to do that and I was just another expense. But it helped me become world champion. In 1989, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad came to gym in Las Vegas everyday for five weeks to watch me train. As a fighter there are certain things you never forget. On November 29th, 1991, Eddie yelled my name and gave me a thumbs-up. It was the greatest night of my career. Everybody was yelling and what I remember was Eddie yelling, ‘McGirt.’”

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad: “This is special to me. I am very appreciative and humbled to put me in the New York Hall of Fame with all these terrific fighters. But, if you invite me again to another festive occasion like this, please (jokingly) don’t sit me between McGirt and Breland. They’re friends of mine, like family. Iran and I won many titles together. I told him that, if he listened to me, he’d be a three-time world champion. He looked at me like I was crazy. I blew it….he became four-time world champion.

“Now, I have my newest world champion, Ishe Smith, and Chad Dawson. I thank God for allowing me to transfer any skills, what I learned from my former trainers, to my students. I’ve had 18 world champions in a young career. After I retired, I didn’t know what to do, and Bob Arum said I could train because he knew I was working with Mike McCallum, who became world champion. I brought Floyd Mayweather his first world champion (Smith). I’m a part of the ‘Money Team’ and thank him for having the trust in me to train some of his young fighters.

“This is like winning a world championship. I love this!”

introducing Boxing Judge Robin Taylor who in turn introduced our

first Guest Speaker Edward Perry who works for the Department of Veterans Affairs. He thanked all the Veterans who served our country. He talked on the Department of Veterans Affairs and how they help out all the Veterans, especially the Vietnam War.
Company Description: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was established on March 15, 1989, succeeding the Veterans Administration. It is responsible for providing federal benefits to veterans and their families. Headed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, VA is the second largest of the 15 Cabinet departments and operates nationwide programs for health care, financial assistance and burial benefits. Of the 24.3 million veterans currently alive, nearly three-quarters served during a war or an official period of conflict. About a quarter of the nation’s population, approximately 63 million people, are potentially eligible for VA benefits and services because they are veterans, family members or survivors of veterans. The responsibility to care for veterans, spouses, survivors and dependents can last a long time. Five children of Civil War veterans still draw VA benefits. About 440 children and widows of Spanish-American War veterans still receive VA compensation or pensions. VA’s fiscal year 2005 spending was $71.2 billion , $31.5 billion for health care, $37.1 billion for benefits, and $148 million for the national cemetery system. President Bush sought $73 billion in the fiscal year 2006 budget for VA, a $1.8 billion increase in budget authority, primarily for health care and disability compensation. For more information you can go to www.va.gov or call (202) 273-5400 – fax (202) 501-2238 Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Ave., Nw., Washington DC, District of Columbia 20420.

President Duffy led us in the flag salute and Christina toll the bell 10 times President Duffy stated that Carl “The Truth” Williams passed away and was laid to rest yesterday.

President Duffy talked on the up-coming NYBHOF Induction Ceremonies which is being held on Sunday, April 28th at Russo’s on the Bay. He went over all the honorees and some of the other celebrates that will be attending including Joe Calzaghe. Tickets are priced at $150 and you can call President Bob Duffy at 516-313-2304 for more information.

President Duffy stated that we will be raffling off 2 Gift Bags that the BWAA gave out at their recent affair and also thanked Jack Hirsch, who is the President of the BWAA, for donating them.

Ring 8 Board member & Head Coach of the Glen Cove Boxing Club, Frank Pena, pictured here on the right, talked on the Ring 8 Picnic which will be held at Glen Cove on Sunday, July 14th starting at 1 PM. Frank along with fellow Ring 8 member & Coach of Glen Cove Boxing Club, Billy Strigaro pictured on the left, are showing off their Female Boxing Champion Viviana Melgar.

President Duffy stated that long time Ring 8 member Vinny Maddalone will be boxing at the Paramount Theatre, Huntington, New York against Undefeated Richard Carmack on May 11th.

Joe DeGuardia (Star Boxing) is giving a 10% discount to all Ring 8 members Plus Ring 8 will be giving another $5 discount for all there members. If anyone is interested in going, please contact President Bob Duffy at 516-313-2304.

President Duffy introduced the BWAA President Jack Hirsch who talked on the 88th Annual BWAA Awards Dinner which was held last week. He announced all the Champions that attended which included Bernard Hopkins, Roy Jones Jr., Timothy Bradley, Nonito Donaire, Ruslan Provodnikov, Gennady Golovkin and Matthew Macklin, Plus Jim Lampley, Bob Arum, Max Kellerman and others. Jack also stated that they recently found out that the first BWAA Awards Dinner took place back on April 25, 1926, thanks to the research of Ring 8 Boxing Historian Henry Hascup.

Jack and others talked about the recent Guillermo Rigondeaux/Nonito Donaire fight.

Jack then introduced our next Guest Speaker Dr. Abbey (Dr. Adal M. Hussain, Phd.), who is the Co-Founder/Executive Director of the World Liberty Television (WLTV). Dr. Abby talked on a Tournament that he won years ago, his fight against drugs and some of the interviews he has done over the years including one with Jake LaMotta. He also talked on the Bollywood Awards.

President Duffy introduced our next Guest Speaker Matchmaker/Boxing Historian Don Majeski. Don stated that he has been in boxing for 43 years and that he has a hard time making a living. He talked on boxing today, and that there were so many more shows years ago then there is today. They build up fighters too much. 1% of the people in boxing makes 95% of the money. The average price for a show in too much for the average fan. For a boxer to make a living they have to be either a World Champion or a Top Contender. Don talked about Health Care for fighters, and that every fighter should have it. He talked on how the money goes from the fighter, to the manager, to the promoter. He stated that Madison Square Garden should do more for boxing. They should sign and promote fighters. Today they care too much about the records and not the fights. He talked about how Bob Montgomery was stopped by Al Bummy Davis in just 1 minute and 3 seconds of the 1st round at Madison Square Garden in 1944 and just 2 weeks later Montgomery beat Beau Jack for the Lightweight Championship of the World.

Don gave a history on the Boxing Commissions, starting back in 1891. He also talked on the International Boxing Hall of Fame and how the process works on how people are voted in.

President Duffy talked on the Finals of the New York Golden Gloves in which Ring 8 will be honoring Vince Shomo.

Former Featherweight Champion, Juan LaPorte talked on Carmelo Negron, who is not doing too well.

Click on to the following site to see his latest interview.

Matchmaker/Boxing Historian Don Majeski

Carmine singing the National Anthem. Henny Wallitsch then led us in the flag salute and Paulette toll the bell 10 times President Duffy stated that Ethel Archer passed away recently.

President Duffy welcomed Paulette back and then she gave a Health and Welfare Report, talking about Bill Tate and Emile Griffith. President Duffy also talked on Emile.

President Duffy stated that Henny’s grandson made the varsity baseball team at St. Dominic High School, which is one of the top High School baseball teams in the State.

President Duffy talked on the NYBHOF affair which will take place on Sunday, April 28th at Russo’s on the Bay. He talked on a Statue for the NYBHOF, and then announced all the inductees, which included All-time Heavyweight great Jack Dempsey, promoter Bob Arum, featherweight Johnny Dundee (83-32-20, 17 KOs); two-time world featherweight champion Sandy Saddler (144-16-2, 103 KOs) and light heavyweight champion Maxie Rosenbloom (207-39-26 (19 KOs). Living boxers heading into the Hall include middleweight Joey Archer (61-6-9, 50 KOs), three-division world champion Iran Barkley (43-19-1 (27 KOs); Mark Breland (35-3-1, 25 KOs), light heavyweight Bobby Cassidy (59-16-3, 27 KOs); world heavyweight challenger Doug Jones (30-10-1, 20 KOs), Junior Jones (50-6, 28 KOs), James “Buddy” McGirt (73-6-1, 48 KOs) and Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (50-8-1, 39 KOs). Non-participants heading into the Hall include managers Shelly Finkel and Tony Graziano, analyst Larry Merchant, matchmaker Teddy Brenner, announcer Don Dunphy, and promoters Mike Jacobs and Tex Rickard. He stated that Joe Calzaghe and Bernard Hopkins are expected to attend and there reaching out to Mike Tyson. Tickets are priced at $150 and you can call President Bob Duffy at 516-313-2304 for more information.

President Duffy stated that he talked to Dempsey’s daughter and she was thrilled. He also talked on the AD Journal.

President Duffy thanked everyone who supported the recent Ring 8 New York Golden Glove Show in which we raised $2,000.

Frank Pena talked on Vince Shomo and that Ring 8 will honor him at the finals of the New York Golden Glove Tournament at the Barclays Center, in Brooklyn. President Duffy stated that Ring 8 would pay for his hotel room and meals while he is in New York.

President Duffy & Frank Pena talked on our Annual picnic which will take place in the summer.

President Duffy also talked on the Bill Gallo Scholarship Award and that we will be giving away $1,500. Applications for the Award are available.

President Duffy talked on Peter King and John McCain and there efforts on getting Former Heavyweight Champion Jack Johnson a pardon. He was found guilty of the “MANN ACT” about 100 years ago. President Duffy asked for the support of the Ring 8 membership to do so as King and McCain have a Bill waiting for approval of President Obama. Henry Hascup also talked on Johnson’s career and that he was singled out when others weren’t. The Ring 8 Board and the General member all agreed to support the Bill.

President Duffy talked on Boxing Judge Robin Taylor and the VA which helps out Veterans, and she will be a guest speaker at our next meeting.

President Duffy introduced 1958 New York Golden Glove Champion Tommy Carcone, who spoke briefly about his career.

Charlie Norkus Jr., talked on the California Boxing Hall of Fame and that 3 New Yorkers will be honored this year. They will induct Harold Lederman, Gil Clancy and Joey Giambra. He also announced all the other inductees.

Ring Announcer and the voice of the Brooklyn Nets David Diamante talked on the recent Bernard Hopkins fight at the Barclays Center and also the daily Sports Show that he announces every morning on NBC from 6 to 9 AM.

On April 4th Tommy Gallagher’s prize fighter, Gabriel “Tito” Bracero will be boxing at the Roseland Ballroom in the Main Event.

BWAA President Jack Hirsch talked on the up-coming BWAA Awards Dinner.

Tickets are on sale for the 88th annual Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) awards dinner on April 11 at Capitale in New York City.

The dinner is open to fight fans, and 2012 Fighter of the Year Nonito Donaire, who fights on April 13 in NYC, will be in attendance.

Tickets are priced at $200 per person, $150 for BWAA members. Tables of 10 are $2,000. A limited number of VIP tickets are also available for $400 per person and $4,000 for a table of 10. VIP tickets include premium seat at dinner, photo opportunity with honorees and a special VIP gift. Payment must be received no later than March 31.

“The response to the upcoming banquet has been great,” BWAA president Jack Hirsch said. “By now people understand that the BWAA dinner serves as the Academy Awards of our sport. We have an exceptional list of honorees, but our list of presenters is awesome as well. That will be made public before the dinner. Everyone attending the dinner receives a gift bag which has a total value close to the price of the dinner ticket.

“From a social perspective, the annual BWAA dinner is by far our sports best social evening of the year. We always sell out in New York. I strongly advise anyone planning to attend to buy their tickets early.”

• Cocktails are available at 6 p.m., followed at 7:30 p.m. ET by dinner and the awards ceremony.

• Bernie Award Winners for boxing writing will also be announced and presented.

• A silent auction will be held. Those donating items for the silent auction will be listed in the event journal and may display their business cards or promotional material on the silent auction table.

• For further information, go online to www.bwaa.org or email Gina Andriolo at ginaandcom@aol.com or Jack Hirsch at ajhirsch5@aol.com.

The second annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.n. ET), April 28, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“This is an exceptional group of inductees,” NYSBHOF and Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said. “We are inducting legitimate New Yorkers in the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame. All of these inductees have a significant impact on New York State boxing during their respective times. There are many other potential inductees but this is only our second year. We’re confident that any deserving people who haven’t been inducted yet will be inducted in due time. There’s a process we’re following. New York State was the driving force in boxing for more than a half-century and remains a major player in the sport, so we’ll have many, many great boxing people to choose from over the years.”

Posthumous participants being inducted along with Dempsey (61-6-9, 50 KOs) are the first great Italian boxer based in America, featherweight Johnny Dundee (83-32-20, 17 KOs); two-time world featherweight champion Sandy Saddler (144-16-2, 103 KOs) Sandy Saddler, who is best known for his epic rivalry with Willie Pep; and world light heavyweight champion Maxie Rosenbloom (207-39-26 (19 KOs).

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF are Bronx middleweight Joey Archer (61-6-9, 50 KOs), three-division world champion from the Bronx, Iran Barkley (43-19-1 (27 KOs); Brooklyn’s Mark Breland (35-3-1, 25 KOs),1984 Olympic gold medalist and two-time world welterweight titlist, Levittown light heavyweight Bobby Cassidy (59-16-3, 27 KOs); world heavyweight challenger Doug Jones (30-10-1, 20 KOs), Brooklyn’s world bantamweight and super bantamweight champion Junior Jones (50-6, 28 KOs), Brentwood’s light welterweight and welterweight champion James “Buddy” McGirt (73-6-1, 48 KOs), Brooklyn’s world light heavyweight champion Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (50-8-1, 39 KOs).

Non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF with Arum (Top Rank) are Shelly Finkel, manager of a NYSBHOF inductee from last year, Mike McCallum, as well as Evander Holyfield and Pernell Whitaker; Tony Graziano, who managed last year’s NYSBHOF inductee, Carmen Basilio, and world welterweight champion Billy Backus; Brooklyn’s Larry Merchant, arguably television’s greatest boxing analyst; posthumously: Teddy Brenner, longtime matchmaker for Madison Square Garden (1959-1973), boxing’s premier blow-by-blow announcer on television and radio, Don Dunphy; powerful promoter Mike Jacobs, and Dempsey’s promoter, Tex Rickard.

Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF. Plaques are on display at the New York State Athletic Commission and Waterfront Crabhouse. Duffy also has revealed that Ring 8′s plan calls for a monument to be built in Long Island City with every NYSBHOF inductee’s name inscribed.

The inductees were selected by NYSBHOF nominating committee members, including Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair and Neil Terens.

“I believe the people on our nominating committee are second to none for any nominating committee in boxing,” Duffy added. “They’re all very knowledgeable and passionate about boxing in New York State.”

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years, in order to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers.

Last year’s Inaugural Class included Basilio and McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, and Emile Griffith, as well as the late “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard and Tony Canzoneri.

Non-participant inductees from the Class of 2012 included judge/HBO analyst Harold Lederman, coach/instructor Steve Acunto, trainer/cut-man Jimmy Glenn and, posthumously, trainers Gil Clancy and Ray Arcel, Ring Magazine founder Nat Fleischer, New York Daily News boxing reporter/cartoonist Bill Gallo, and referee Arthur Mercante, Sr.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult ($125.00 for Ring 8 members in good standing) and $50.00 for children, and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 PM/ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the evening. Tickets are available to purchase at the Waterfront Crabhouse (2-03 Borden Ave in Long Island City), or by calling Mazzarella at 718.729.4862 or Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $50.00 to $250.00, by contacting Mazzarella and Duffy.

Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

Elvir Muriqui is managed by John McKay and trained by Tommy Gallagher both Ring 8 members.

Thompson, Nickey, Young & Wright put undefeated records on the line plus Heavyweight slugfest between Patrick Farrell and John Lennox—PRESS CONFERENCE MARCH 8^TH AT THE MARRIOTT IN WHIPPANY

On Friday night, March 15^th Light Heavyweight contender Elvir “The Kosova Kid” Muriqi returns to the ring when he takes on Paul Vazquez in a scheduled eight round bout at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany, New Jersey.

In the eight round co-feature, undefeated John Thompson (10-0, 3 KO’s) will take on Calvin Odom in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Thompson, of Newark, NJ has been stepping up the competition with each fight. The twenty-three year old has quality wins over Jermond Bourgeois (TKO 2), John Mackey (UD) and his last bout when he scored a six round unanimous decision over Elie Augustama on December 1st at Madison Square Garden as part of the Austin Trout – Miguel Cotto championship fight card.

Odom of Inglewood, CA has a record of 15-13 with 11 wins by knockout.  Odom has faced top competition and has defeated the likes of undefeated Juan Gil, Jose Luis Zertuche, and Srrgio Rios and has also faced Grady Brewer (twice),  Roberto Garcia, former world title challenger Marco Antonio Rubio, Sebastian Valdez, Jose Antonio Ojeda, Walter Wright, Luciano Perez, Charles Hatley, Wale Omotoso, Tony Harrison and his last bout he dropped an eight round decision to Joe Greene on January 10th

In what figures to be a six round Heavyweight slugfest, it will be the battle of New Jersey when Patrick Farrell (8-1-1, 4 KO’s) of Jersey City takes on John Lennox (10-2, 5 KO’s) of Carteret.

Also appearing in a six round bout will be undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas (4-0, 3 KO’s) of Washington, DC taking on Josh Thorpe of Cincinnati, OH.

In four round bouts: New Jersey Amateur star Ricky Edwards will be making his long a waited Pro debut against Moses Molina (1-3); Danny Gonzalez (1-0) of Queens, NY will face Carlos Nieves (0-1) in a Jr. Welterweight bout; In a Jr. Lightweight bout, Glenford Nickey (1-0-1) of New York battles Anolan Rigal (1-3-1, 1 KO) of Johnson City, NY; Anthony “Juice” Young (6-0, 2 KO’s) of Atlantic City, NJ takes on Ronnie Jordan (1-1-1) in a Welterweight bout; Tyrell Wright (1-0) of Bayonne, NJ will compete in a four round Heavyweight against Moses Marshall (0-0-1); Rounding out the card will be popular Jr. Welterweight Vinny O’Brien (3-2, 2 KO’s) of East Hanover, NJ batting Anthony Smith (1-1).

Tickets are priced at $150 (VIP Ringside—which includes a cocktail hour and tickets in the 1st two rows); $100 Ringside and $50 for General Admission and can be purchased by going online at www.gh3promotions.com; www.eliteheatgym.com or calling Elite Heat Gym at 862-772-2532

The Birchwood Mannor is located at
111 N Jefferson Rd  Whippany, NJ 07981

Carmine sung the National Anthem. President Duffy asked the membership to keep Carl Williams, Emile Griffith and Vince Shomo in our prayers while John Labate rang the bell 10 times in memory of those who passed on.

President Duffy introduced Johnny Colon’s daughter Cheri, pictured on the left.

President Duffy talked on our recent Ring 8 Holiday Award Ceremonies held at Russo’s on the Bay on February 1st. He stated that we had close to 400 people attend and everyone walked away happy.

President Duffy stated that Ring 8 will be running a New York Golden Glove Show next Thursday night. This will be for the Bill Gallo Scholarship Fund. He also stated that he has forms for the Scholarship Fund for anyone that is interested. Tickets are only $25.

President Duffy stated that Jack Hirsch, who is not only the President of the BWAA But he is also the President of the Nominating Committee for the New York Boxing Hall of Fame, and they will be announcing the 2013 Class very shortly. President Duffy announced all the names on the voting committee. We will be having a press conference announcing all the names at the Crab House early in March.

The NYBHOF affair will take place on Sunday, April 28th at Russo’s on the Bay. Tickets will be priced at $125 for all Ring 8 paid up members and $150 for the rest.

President Duffy also announced that former World Super Middleweight Champion Joe Calzaghe will be coming. Because of the weather Joe’s plane was delayed and he couldn’t make to our Ring 8 affair in February, so we are inviting him to this.

President Duffy also stated that on Saturday April 27th at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York there will be a Championship Boxing card starring Peter Quillin, Fernando Guerrero, Danny Garcia, Zab Judah and Paul Malignaggi. At that event Ring 8 will be making Award presentations to Bernard Hopkins among others.

President Duffy stated that we will have our 3rd Annual picnic sometime during the summer. He also stated that we are working on having an Amateur Boxing Show sometime in September at the Crab House.

Tommy Gallagher talked on a couple of pro boxing shows that will be coming up in Roseland Ballroom, New York and Whippany, New Jersey.

President Duffy brought up all the Ring 8 honorees, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Eddie Claudio, Ron McNair, John Signorile and Charlie Norkus Jr. Charlie also talked on the California Boxing Hall of Fame affair in which his father Charlie Norkus Sr., was inducted.

Frank Pena introduced several officials that were in attendance, including Carlos Ortiz, Robin Talyor and Sparkle Lee. President Duffy also introduced boxing judges John McKaie and HBO’s Harold Lederman, as well as several other new members.

President Duffy announced that John Rowe is a New Board member and John Holden will be the new Sgt. At Arms.

Eddie Claudio announced that Frank Pena has been appointed to the New York State Athletic Commission as an Inspector.

BWAA President Jack Hirsch announced all the Award winners for the BWAA, and stated that the affair will take place on April 11, 2013 at the Acappella, which is located at 1 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013. Jack also talked on the future of the sport of boxing.

Close to 400 people attended along with such boxing standouts as Buddy McGirt, Iran Barkley, Tracy Harris Patterson, Vito Antuofermo, Bobby Czyz, Renaldo Snipes, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, NY Boxing Commissioner Melvina Lathan, Harold Lederman along with Jersey Shores “Snooki”

CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Ring 8 President Bob Duffy who once again ran an OUTSTANDING event!

Our next meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 19th at the Crabhouse !