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The International Boxing Hall of Fame has confirmed two fan favorites for its upcoming gathering in Canastota: Eric “Butterbean” Esch and Hall of Famer Vinny Paz. Announcements were released on March 27, 2026 and March 26, 2026 respectively, ahead of the four-day celebration scheduled for June 11-14, 2026. The museum bills Canastota as “Boxing’s Hometown,” and organizers expect a mix of former champions, media figures and community events during the weekend. The director, Edward Brophy, highlighted both fighters’ lasting appeal and the opportunity for fans to meet stars in person during the Hall of Fame Weekend.
Two careers spotlighted: from Toughman rings to Hall of Fame status
Eric “Butterbean” Esch rose from regional Toughman contests in Jasper, Alabama, into a pro career that featured 91 fights and 57 knockouts. His roughhouse style translated into mainstream exposure: television talk shows, an appearance on Jackass The Movie where he knocked out Johnny Knoxville, a spot on Celebrity Family Feud, and a run in sports entertainment at WrestleMania. After retirement he battled chronic pain and weight issues but made a dramatic turnaround using DDP Yoga, losing over 200 pounds and now sharing that recovery story with fans. Vinny “Pazmanian Devil” Paz is remembered for his grit: world titles across multiple divisions, victories over top opponents and a remarkable comeback 13 months after a fractured neck; he retired with a pro record of 50-10 (30 KOs).
Who else will be in Canastota
Beyond Butterbean and Paz, the weekend lineup features a global roster of boxing figures. Confirmed attendees include Marco Antonio Barrera, Mikey Garcia, Erik Morales, Jorge Linares, Christy Martin, Timothy Bradley Jr., Winky Wright, Jim Lampley, Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik, Kenny Bayless, “Jesse” James Leija, Buddy McGirt, Ray Mercer, and legends like Ruben Olivares and Vinny Paz returning as a Hall of Famer. The Parade of Champions will be led by grand marshal Sugar Ray Leonard and the celebrated 1976 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team, marking the 50th Anniversary of those Olympic Games with gold medalists Michael Spinks and Leo Randolph, silver medalist Charles Mooney and team member Chuck Walker on hand.
Events and festival highlights
The four-day celebration will be spread across Canastota and the nearby Turning Stone Resort Casino, offering a mix of fan-facing activities and formal tributes. Attendees can expect ringside talks, hands-on fist casting opportunities, a featured fight night, and the community 5K race / fun run. Collectors will find a boxing autograph card show, while evening programming includes a formal banquet and the induction ceremony. The schedule is designed so fans can balance autograph sessions, panel discussions and public spectacles like the parade without missing marquee moments.
How to attend and get more information
Ticketing for the Hall of Fame Weekend is handled through the museum’s official order form; prospective attendees should consult the International Boxing Hall of Fame for the most current instructions and availability. For direct assistance, the Hall of Fame provides a contact phone number: (315) 697-7095, where staff can answer questions about packages, special events, and accessibility. Fans planning travel may want to secure accommodations early, since the combination of inductees and high-profile guests tends to increase local demand around June 11-14, 2026.
About the International Boxing Hall of Fame and visitor details
Established to preserve and celebrate the sport’s heritage, the International Boxing Hall of Fame opened to the public in 1989 and remains focused on honoring the world’s best fighters and contributors. The facility sits in Canastota, New York, conveniently reachable from Exit 34 of the New York State Thruway. Regular visiting hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the museum continues to expand exhibits and programming so that boxing fans of all ages can engage with the sport’s history. For press inquiries, event details and updates, follow the Hall of Fame’s official social channels or call the number above.