WBC junior welterweight champion to be special guest of honor at cocktail reception

Arturo "Thunder" Gatti, the reigning WBC junior welterweight champion of the world, will be the special guest of honor at a cocktail reception at the Boxing Hall of Fame Event Pavilion on Saturday, October 16th. Gatti, who is one of the most popular fighters on HBO's World Championship Boxing, will be making his first visit to "Boxing's Hometown."

"The Hall of Fame is extremely excited about welcoming Arturo Gatti to Canastota," said Hall of Fame director Ed Brophy. "It's a great opportunity for fans to meet one of today's superstars."

The evening will run from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and consist of photograph and autograph opportunities, food and beverages, silent and live auctions, and fight films highlighting Gatti's career.

"This promises to be an unforgettable night for both Gatti and his many fans," said Brophy.

Dubbed "The Human Highlight Film," Gatti has endeared himself to the boxing world with his crowd-pleasing style. The Montreal-native, promoted by Main Events, has been involved in "Fight of the Year" on five occasions (1996, 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2003) and has twice captured world titles (IBF super featherweight and WBC junior welterweight). Gatti's trilogy with "Irish" Micky Ward (2-1) is widely considered one of the most thrilling in boxing history and cemented his reputation as a ring warrior. In compiling a 38-6 (29KOs) record, Gatti has scored dramatic victories over such notables as Tracy Harris Patterson, Wilson Rodriguez, Calvin Grove, Gabriel Ruelas, Terron Millett and Ward. His most recent win was a convincing 2nd round KO over Leonard Dorin and he is next scheduled to defend his title in early 2005.

Tickets for the cocktail reception are $50 and can be purchased by calling the Boxing Hall of Fame at 315-697-7095. Only a limited number of tickets will be available and tickets must be purchased in advance. All proceeds will benefit the Boxing Hall of Fame.