The International Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 – A Tribute to Legends

Austin Jones
May 6
4 min read

The International Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 – A Tribute to Legends

The International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) has announced the Class of 2025 inductees, and it’s a lineup that represents the very best the sport has ever seen. From electrifying champions to trailblazers who paved the way for future generations, this year's class is packed with legends who’ve left an indelible mark on the sweet science.

Induction Weekend: June 5-8, 2025

The IBHOF Induction Weekend is always one of the most anticipated events in boxing, and this year promises to be no different. Set to take place from June 5–8, 2025, in Canastota, New York, the weekend will be filled with celebrations, ringside talks, a 5K run, and a parade led by Grand Marshal Sydney Sweeney, the acclaimed actress and boxing enthusiast. It will culminate in the highly anticipated induction ceremony, where the heroes of the sport will be immortalized.

Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable athletes and figures who will be enshrined in 2025.

Modern Fighters: A New Generation of Legends

Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao

Undoubtedly one of the most celebrated boxers of all time, Manny Pacquiao will finally receive his rightful place in the IBHOF. With a career spanning across eight weight divisions, Pacquiao’s achievements are unparalleled. His journey from a humble Filipino kid to a global icon, holding world titles from flyweight to super welterweight, is a testament to his grit, heart, and unmatched skill. His influence has transcended the boxing ring, with his contributions to politics, charity, and culture.

Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz

Vinny Paz is one of boxing's true warriors. Known for his relentless fighting spirit and incredible comeback story, Paz’s resilience made him a fan favorite. His rise from adversity, including a horrific car accident that nearly ended his career, is immortalized in the movie Bleed for This. With world titles in multiple weight classes, Paz’s place in the IBHOF is well-earned.

Michael “Second To” Nunn

A dominant middleweight champion in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Michael Nunn was known for his speed, agility, and technical prowess. His slick style inside the ring made him a tough opponent for anyone in his division, and his long reign as champion solidified his legacy as one of the best middleweights of his era.

Women’s Boxing: Pioneers and Powerhouses

Yessica “Kika” Chávez

From Mexico, Yessica Chávez’s aggressive style and heart made her a standout in the flyweight division. As a former WBC flyweight champion, Chávez helped pave the way for future generations of female boxers. Her contributions to the sport go beyond her in-ring accomplishments, as she’s become a beacon of inspiration for women in boxing.

Anne Sophie Mathis

A knockout artist from France, Anne Sophie Mathis earned her spot in the IBHOF through her raw power and technical skill. As a multi-time world champion, she captivated audiences with her ferocious fighting style and became one of the most feared fighters in her weight class.

Mary Jo Sanders

Known for her speed and defensive mastery, Mary Jo Sanders was one of the best female boxers of her time. She made her mark by holding world titles in multiple weight classes, and her precision inside the ring made her one of the most difficult fighters to defeat. Her induction serves as a tribute to the women who helped elevate boxing to where it is today.

Trailblazers and Non-Participants: The Figures Who Shaped Boxing

Kenny Bayless

Few referees have had the impact of Kenny Bayless. His long career as a respected official in boxing has earned him a spot in the IBHOF, where he will be honored for his dedication to ensuring fairness in the ring. Bayless’s ability to maintain control over high-stakes fights has made him a trusted figure in the sport.

Al Gavin (Posthumous) & Harry Gibbs (Posthumous)Both Al Gavin and Harry Gibbs, recognized posthumously, were legendary cut men who dedicated their careers to protecting fighters in the ring. Their work behind the scenes was crucial to the safety and well-being of countless fighters, and their contributions to boxing will never be forgotten.

The Observers: Those Who Helped Boxers Shine

Randy Gordon

Randy Gordon’s contributions to the sport go beyond his work as a journalist. A former chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission, Gordon has been instrumental in shaping the rules and regulations that govern the sport. His voice has been a trusted one in boxing media, and he continues to have a significant impact on the sport’s growth and development.

Ross Greenburg

As a producer of some of the most iconic boxing documentaries and television specials, Ross Greenburg helped bring the stories of boxing’s greatest stars to the masses. His work has allowed millions to witness the history of boxing, and his influence on the sport’s storytelling continues to resonate.

Old Timers & Pioneers: The Foundations of Boxing

Rodrigo Valdez (Posthumous)

Rodrigo Valdez, a two-time middleweight champion, was known for his incredible toughness and will to win. His battles in the 1970s were legendary, and his induction into the IBHOF honors his role as one of the great middleweights of his era.

Owen Swift (Posthumous)

A pioneering African American boxer from the early 20th century, Owen Swift fought in an era where racial discrimination was rampant. Despite the challenges, Swift’s skill and determination made him one of the most respected fighters of his time.

Induction Weekend Highlights

The IBHOF Induction Weekend is more than just a ceremony. It’s a celebration of boxing’s history and the athletes who made it great. The weekend will feature a 5K run, a parade of champions, autograph sessions, and, of course, the induction ceremony itself.

It’s an event for boxing fans to gather, share stories, and pay tribute to the fighters who have shaped the sport we love.

A Historic Class

The IBHOF Class of 2025 represents the best of the best in boxing, from modern legends like Manny Pacquiao and Vinny Paz to trailblazers like Cathy “Cat” Davis. These inductees embody the spirit of boxing—resilience, courage, and excellence.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic event. Whether you’re attending in person or following from afar, the IBHOF Induction Weekend is a celebration of the sport’s past, present, and future.