NVBHOF Induction Gala Recap

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (NVBHOF) held a knockout Induction Gala Weekend as the nonprofit organization welcomed 20 new inductees into their historic hall of fame.

Here’s my recap about the August 10 induction dinner held at The Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The weekend of August 8-10 was an action-packed time for NVBHOF founder Rich Marotta, CEO/President Michelle Corrales-Lewis, Vice President Anthony Randolph and their NVHBOF Board of Directors, staff and volunteers. The group hosted a VIP Inductee Welcome Party, the Diego “Chico” Corrales Classic Amateur Boxing Tournament, a Meet & Greet Fan Experience with the Champs, a Bowling Event hosted by Zab Judan and the Induction Awards Gala taking place on Saturday night.

 

Twenty champs, trainers and officials were voted into the Class of 2023 and 2024.

The awards ceremony began with red carpet arrivals plus special introductions as the inductees made their way into the ballroom complete with Vegas showgirls ushering their entrance into the crowd. It was a very exciting night as the NVBHOF presented their 12th annual event.

The stage was set with the families, friends and fans all anticipating this year’s ceremony. In attendance were guests from all around the globe including past inductees, current and former champs, contenders and stars of boxing, amateur fighters, trainers, cornermen, historians, actors, authors, sponsors and more.

Patrons enjoyed a delicious beef dinner followed by the NVBHOF signature dessert–this year’s treat was topped with edible “Boxing Capital of the World” marquee signs and it is always a showpiece for the audience!

As the inductions began, emcees Al Bernstein, Lisa King and Ramblin’ Ralph Velez Jr. introduced each new inductee listing their career highlights and milestones in the sport. The speeches were, at times, emotional and bittersweet for some, entertaining and humorous for others. The joy emanating from the honorees was clearly evident on their faces as was the proud and happy expressions and applause from their loved ones.

The 2023 and 2024 awardees received a treasure trove of gifts to commemorate their induction into the NVBHOF including bronze statues (Steve Harpst Bronzes), World Boxing Council (WBC) green and gold mini belts, commemorative ring displays (Rick Nieto) and gold and diamond rings declaring them an official NVBHOF inductee!

It was a historic night and an epic event.

Check out my snapshots from the evening and congrats again to the following inductees:

NVBHOF’s Diego “Chico” Classic:

NVBHOF VIP Party and Bowling Event:

NVBHOF Preview:

Photos by Michele Chong