![]() We’ve also gotten lucky with the weather, and with fighters that draw in fans. “If we do good next week we’ll break last year’s record, which was pretty hard to beat with Tyson,” said Russo. Russo noted the high attendance numbers the tourney had already drawn this season, up by roughly 1,200 fans ahead of last year’s numbers. He’s a great guy and a credit to the sport.” He’s one of those guys where if you needed something he’ll do it. He’s here because he wanted to give back. “He’s at a gym every day with the kids, and his heart is in the right place. “The thing about Buster is he’s a fan friendly guy,” said Russo. It motivates me to see people where we come from that can take that gift God gave us and make the most of it.”Īccording to Russo, Douglas is the genuine article. “Last year Mike Tyson was here, so I’m just very grateful to even be around them. “It’s great to be around a world champion like that,” said Maysonet, who claimed the male open final in the 156-pound division with a split decision win over Joe Bush. Up and coming amateurs like Lisandro Maysonet are taking those words of wisdom to heart. ![]() And if that’s what you decide you want to do, give it all you’ve got, but be fair to yourself.” “Belief in yourself is more valuable than waiting for somebody to believe in you,” said Douglas. You’re just testing one’s will.”Īnd it all starts with the right attitude. ”Feeling good about yourself and getting in shape. “It’s just about being competitive,” said Douglas. From high school students just breaking into the fight game, to even a 40-year-old father going through a self-described midlife crisis.Įach boxer, however, is connected by a common thread. This year’s Golden Gloves tournament has featured another wide array of men and women from all walks of life. ![]() Getting the opportunity, taking advantage of it, and seizing that moment.” ![]() “I was a boy growing up, trying to be the best that he can be at any given moment. “I learned a lot competing in the Golden Gloves,” said Douglas, who first boxed in the tourney at age 15, tipping the scales at a mere 154 pounds. The Columbus, Ohio native began boxing at age 10, winning local Golden Gloves and Ohio State Fair awards as a teenager before turning pro at the age of 21 in 1981. He ended with a career record of 38-6-1 with 25 knockouts.īefore garnering worldwide attention, Douglas was like a lot of amateur fighters looking to make their mark. Retiring shortly after the loss, he returned to the ring in 1996, before finally hanging up the gloves for good in 1999. “It’s about believing in yourself.”ĭouglas reigned as the world champion for eight months, before being defeated by Evander Holyfield in his lone title defense on Oct. “It was an individual going up against all odds, giving it all he’s got and coming out at the other end, which is a rarity these days,” said Douglas. These are kids coming up fulfilling the dream to one day maybe even succeed at becoming a world champion themselves … you never know.”ĭouglas certainly knows what he’s talking about.įormer heavyweight champion James “Buster” Douglas signs a backpack for Francisco Perez, 13, of Lowell, during his visit to the Lowell Police Youth Services Boxing Club at the Portuguese American Youth Center on Thursday. “I’m having a good time,” said Douglas, who received a standing ovation from the capacity crowd midway through Thursday’s event. He was presented with a commemorative plaque from Bob Russo, executive director of the New England Golden Gloves and national president of Golden Gloves of America, and Lowell Sun Charities President Kevin Coughlin, as well as receiving a citation from Lowell Mayor Sokhary Chau. Known the world over as the man that knocked out “Iron” Mike Tyson, Douglas is also a former Golden Gloves champion and was happy to be making the rounds in that familiar circle again. The former undisputed world heavyweight champion brought the crowd to its feet Thursday night as a special guest at the 76th New England Golden Gloves at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. LOWELL - James “Buster” Douglas still packs a powerful punch in the boxing world.
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