The former world champion boxer with the distinctive nickname, Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, will greet fans at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. prior to the November 9 edition of ShoBox: The New Generation featuring five 2012 American Olympic boxers making their professional debuts along with unbeaten featherweight contender and 2008 United States Olympian Gary Russell Jr. facing Vyacheslav Gusev in the evening’s main event.
Following a stellar amateur career, Mancini made the jump to the professional game in 1978. His whirlwind punching style caught the attention of network executives at several American television networks, and he became a regular on their sports programming. During this time, Mancini defeated some excellent opponents, including former United States Champion Norman Goins.
He held the World Boxing Association lightweight championship title from 1982 to 1984 and when Mancini retired officially in 1992, he left the game with an impressive record of 29-5 with 23 knockouts. His legacy also included his inspirational story of a young champion who had won the title as much for his family as for himself. The essence of this story was captured in a made-for-television movie based on Mancini’s life.
Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center. The meet and greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.
“Night Of The Olympians” is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT on fight night. The ShoBox: The New Generation telecast will air live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). Tickets, priced at $25, $35 and $45, are available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.
