(Canastota, NY – April 2013) The International Boxing Hall of Fame announced two-division champion Tracy Harris Patterson will attend festivities planned for the 24th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend set for June 6 to 9 and pay tribute to 2013 Inductee Arturo “Thunder” Gatti.
“Tracy Patterson was an exciting fighter who captured two world titles and thrilled fans with his performances in the ring,” said Hall of Fame director Edward Brophy. “The Hall of Fame is excited to welcome him back to Canastota to help recognize the achievements of his former ring foe Arturo Gatti.”
Patterson and Gatti, who passed away in 2009 and will be inducted posthumously, engaged in two compelling IBF super featherweight bouts (1995 & 1997) with Gatti capturing 12-round decisions in both bouts.
Said Patterson on attending Hall of Fame Weekend and paying tribute to Gatti, “After being in battles with him and to now see a man who put everything into the game be inducted, it will be a great honor for me to help welcome Arturo into the Hall.”
The fighting pride of New Paltz, NY during a 16-year career, Patterson won the WBC super bantamweight title (1992-94) and the IBF super featherweight title (1995). Patterson and his father, Hall of Fame heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson, made history by becoming the first father – son to win world championships.
Patterson, who retired in 2001, holds a pro record of 63-8-2 (43 KOs) that includes wins over Thierry Jacob, Jesse Benavides, Eddie Hopson and Hall of Famer Daniel Zaragoza. He currently trains boxers, including featherweight Patrick “The Punisher” Hyland.
“It will also be an honor to see Virgil Hill go in the Hall because we spent time in training camp together when we had the same trainer,” said Patterson.
For more information on the Hall of Fame’s 24th Annual Induction Weekend, call (315) 697-7095 or visit online at www.ibhof.com.