On a frosty December day in 2023, the International Boxing Hall of Fame, gearing up for a grand 35th birthday bash in 2024, dropped a bombshell. The new class of inductees for the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend!
The 2024 roster is a who’s who of boxing greatness. It’s headlined by Ricky Hatton, Michael Moorer, Ivan Calderon, and posthumously, Diego Corrales in the men’s modern division. In the women’s corner, we’ve got Jane Couch and Ana Maria Torres. The non-fighting champs joining them include trainer Kenny Adams, manager Jackie Kallen, and publicist Fred Sternburg. In the observer seats, we have journalist Wallace Matthews and broadcaster Nick Charles (posthumously). And let’s not forget Luis Angel Firpo in the Old Timer division and Theresa Kibby in the Trailblazer division, both honored posthumously.
These legends were chosen by the discerning eyes of the Boxing Writers Association of America and a panel of international boxing historians. For those itching for a deep dive into their storied careers, head over to www.ibhof.com.
Edward Brophy, the Hall of Fame’s Executive Director, couldn’t contain his excitement. He’s practically bouncing off the ropes about the upcoming 35th anniversary celebration and the chance to tip his hat to the latest inductees.
COMMENTS UPON RECEIVING INDUCTION NEWS
“This is something great, a dream come true. I dreamed to be a boxer. I dreamed to be a world champion. I especially dreamed to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. And now I’ve got everything!”
– Ivan Calderon
“That’s incredible. You never think of when you lace the gloves on at 10 years old that you’ll end up in the Hall of Fame with some of the great fighters already there. I’m a bit speechless. There’s no greater honor. I’m delighted. ”
– Ricky Hatton
“I appreciate this very much. The Hall of Fame Wall is the wall of the elite and I am so happy to be inducted alongside some of my favorite boxers like Salvador Sanchez, Alexis Arguello and Marvelous Marvin Hagler. I made it to the elite.”
– Michael Moorer
“Oh my God, I’m in shock over this news. Wow! I can’t believe it. I’m so excited and cannot wait to get to Canastota and meet everyone during the Induction Weekend.”
– Jane Couch
“It is a great honor to be in the International Boxing Hall of Fame with great champions. I am very happy! Thanks to my mom, who has always been with me. My husband, my children and I have taken this great news as another championship.”
– Ana Maria Torres
“This feels great to get this news. I can now say that I’ve reached the highest point in the sport of boxing.”
– Kenny Adams
“I’m so happy I could cry! I’ve wanted this for so long. I am so elated I don’t know what to say. To be recognized for my 45 years in the sport is amazing and I’m so appreciative. I’m looking forward to a wonderful experience at Induction Weekend.”
– Jackie Kallen
“I am stunned. Working in boxing has been such great fun. I have had the good fortune to work with some very remarkable people, including world champions and contenders, promoters, managers, and television executives, trainers and fellow public relations practitioners, all who were generous with their time and taught me so much. Inside the International Boxing Hall of Fame, there are plaques dedicated to boxing legends of all generations. It is a privilege to join them.”
– Fred Sternburg
“I never went into this for awards or money. I went into it to help the fighters because I love boxing and to know that I’m going to be honored among the athletes that I respected and loved as a kid is a great honor and humbling”
– Wallace Matthews
“I’m over the moon happy to hear that Diego will be enshrined with his boxing peers and family that he loves so much at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in the Class of 2024. Our entire family thanks the voting committee for recognizing the hard work and dedication that Diego gave the sport of boxing with the highest level of recognition a Champion can ever ask for. I’m sure Diego is smiling from ear to ear as I accept this news on his behalf. Thank you.”
– Michelle Corrales-Lewis
The Induction Weekend promises to be a barn burner in “Boxing’s Hometown.” Picture this: ringside chats, fist casting (yes, you heard that right), a star-studded fight night, a 5K run that’s more fun than run, an autograph bonanza, a banquet, a parade, and of course, the main event – the induction ceremony.
Now, let’s hear from the inductees themselves!