Fundraiser Event To Benefit The Joe Hand Boxing Gym and Philly Boxing History, Inc
DEER LAKE, PA — Fighter’s Heaven, Muhammad Ali’s historic training camp in Deer Lake, Pa., will host ‘A Tribute To Philly Boxing’, Saturday June 28, as part of the camp’s Tribute Series honoring boxing history. This all-day event will feature presentations and discussions with a Who’s Who of Philadelphia boxing legends. Guests include boxers Tim Witherspoon, Ivan Robinson and Nate Miller, all former title holders. Other participants from the world of Philadelphia boxing include former state boxing commissioner George Bochetto, Fight Promoter J Russell Peltz, former state athletic commissioner Greg Sirb, boxing writer Bernard Fernandez and Philadelphia boxing historians John DiSanto and Matthew Ward.
Fighter’s Heaven is dedicated to continuing the works of Muhammad Ali, who was fond of saying that he wanted to use his fame and notoriety to help those less fortunate and to make the world a better place. All proceeds from this event will benefit two boxing-related organizations dedicated to helping those with needs. One group assists those currently at risk and in need, the other pays homage to boxing’s past in an effort to provide formal graveside recognition for those who passed.
- The Joe Hand Boxing Gym is a non-profit organization located in Feasterville, Pa., and is an extension of Joe Hand Promotions, the nation’s largest distributor of premium sports content nationwide to commercial establishments. The Joe Hand Boxing Gym (JHBG) is dedicated to empowering individuals through the discipline of boxing and fitness. The JHBG provides a safe, inclusive and supportive environment through regularly scheduled weekly programs for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease, children with autism and special needs, adults seeking wellness, and at-risk youths. For more information, visit https://joehandgym.com/giving-back/.
- Philly Boxing History is a non-profit group dedicated to preserving and honoring the great history of boxing in Philadelphia. A highlight of this non-profit organization, founded by John DiSanto is the ‘Gravestone Program’, established to fund headstones on the previously unmarked graves of famed Philadelphia boxers, including Tyrone Everett, Gypsy Joe Harris, Garnet “Sugar” Hart, Eddie Cool and Matthew Saad Muhammad. They are currently raising headstone funds for former welterweight Gil Turner.
Philadelphia has a long and colorful history as a hotbed for boxing. It is recognized for championship fighters, local boxing clubs, classic venues, and Rocky Balboa. Many consider the city to be the birthplace of American boxing. Ali enjoyed a strong association with the city, owning homes in West Philadelphia and suburban Cherry Hill.
The Tribute to Philly Boxing program will include presentations ‘Philadelphia: An Historic Boxing Legacy’, ‘Ali: The Philadelphia Years’, ‘Philadelphia: The Boxing Legends’, and ‘Philadelphia: The Past, Current and Future of Boxing’. In addition, George Bochetto and John DiSanto will have rare boxing memorabilia on display and lunchtime entertainment will be provided by the jazz guitar of Nate Miller. A post event meet and greet, sponsored by Yuengling will provide an opportunity to mingle with the guests.
Fighter’s Heaven, where Ali trained in the 1970’s has earned recognition as both a Pennsylvania and National Historic Landmark. This will be the second in the Fighter’s Heaven Tribute Series. Last fall the camp recognized the 50th anniversary of the Rumble In The Jungle. Later this year, the Tribute Series will honor the 50th Anniversary of the Thrilla in Manila.
Tickets cost $60 each, and include the full day’s activities, catered lunch and a special commemorative gift. Register at: www.fightersheaven.com
For additional information: Ken Safarowic, ken@fightersheaven.com; Cell: 267-718-8025
