Sugar Factory Party with the Champs
Former world champion Leon Spinks celebrated his 65th birthday in style at a knockout celebration held last Thursday at the Sugar Factory in Las Vegas.
We stopped by the B-day bash about halfway through the party which was still going strong when we got there. Held in the ultra plush Chocolate Lounge (above the Sugar Factory), there was a lively atmosphere with a custom birthday cake, delicious food, specialty cocktails in honor of the champ and a pound-for-pound guest list of current and former boxers attending this private party.
Leon turned 65 on July 11 but the KO celebration was timed to coincide with the 2018 induction ceremony with the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (NVBHOF). The soirée took place on the eve of the NVBHOF weekend (August 17-18 at Caesars Palace) so many of the attendees had just arrived in town for the big awards gala.
The Chocolate Lounge was the perfect place befitting of a beloved boxing champion. The whimsical theme was fun for all; the setting classy and cool. There is an indoor eatery and bar area and a fantastic outdoor patio with a view and a play zone with a carousel, oversized lollipops, yellow ducks and more!
There was also an eye-catching cake honoring Spinks (26-17-3, 14 KOs), a red satin boxing robe signed by the superstars and a presentation of a special gift from acclaimed artist Michael Godard (known for his olive paintings). A beautiful painting was unveiled in honor of the pugilist.
The heavyweight tabbed as “Neon Leon,” is a fan favorite known for his playful personality. By his side was his wife, Brenda, a vivacious blonde who greeted all the invited guests with a big hug and a warm smile.
Leon and his brother Michael Spinks rose from their St. Louis roots to earn Olympic gold medals and fame in the pro ranks. Leon beat Muhammad Ali and also fought Larry Holmes, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Randall Cobb and more before retiring from the ring in 1995. He is also a proud U.S. Marine who served his country.
And on August 16, it was time for an epic birthday party to celebrate this former prizefighter’s milestone B-day.
The guests told me they really enjoyed the Chocolate Lounge and Sugar Factory (near the Fashion Show Mall). The out-of-towners said they had a great time seeing Leon and reconnecting with their fellow fighters, boxing peers and fight fans.
I saw many familiar faces in the crowd. I arrived toward the end of the gathering and it was still a full house! Spotted at the party were Joel Casamayor, Jessie Vargas, Ray Mercer, Lamon Brewster, Danny “Little Red” Lopez, James “Quick” Tillis, Yaqui Lopez, Al “Ice” Cole, Kenny Bayless, Kermit Bayless, Steve Harpst, Greg Everett, Shelley Williams, Bill and Linda Young, Larry and Marsha Covin, and many more. Check out my exclusive snapshots from the night.
The Las Vegas Strip is legendary and Leon Spinks’ 65th Birthday Party proved to be one for the ages!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHAMP!
Photos by Michele Chong
