It was the day after a controversial decision in the boxing world- Bradley over Pacquiao- that had boxing fans, and some hall of famers up in arms. So it was fitting that the International Boxing Hall of Fame held its 2012 induction ceremony Sunday, less than 24 hours after that fight.
A chance, to show the good side and amazing history of the sport.
So, International Boxing Hall of Fame inducts 2012 class
The modern day inductees include ring announcer Michael Buffer, broadcaster Al Bernstein, journalist Michael Katz, trainer (for Pacquiao, coincidentally) Freddy Roach and fighters Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson and the "Motor City Cobra" Tommy "Hitman" Hearns.
Roach gracefully did not talk about the fight from the night before, that surely was on his mind after taking the red-eye flight with Buffer to make the induction ceremony on time. Roach had many people to thank, and called Sunday's induction ceremony "the best day of my life".
Katz was not so political about the matter, speaking his mind about his displeasure with the decision but made sure we all know "we'll (boxing) come back from it".
All the stars showed their gratitude for the wonderful weekend put on by the Hall of Fame staff, and while the actual induction ceremony itself is the main event the "Parade of Champions" drew quite a crowd too.
In addition to the inductees, boxing stars like "Sugar" Ray Leonard, "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler, Michael Moorer, Leon Spinks, and "The Hawk" Aaron Pryor took part in the parade, which was grand marshaled by Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl MVP winner Desmond Howard.
Alas, less than a day removed from a day where boxing fans were livid, the healing process began, right here in Central New York. And one glance at the history on hand in Canastota, is living proof that Michael Katz was correct in his induction speech.
Boxing, indeed, will be back.
