Cleveland, OH- Tim VanNewhouse is one the most recognizable names in boxing over the past twenty years. Upon the exit of his ring career, VanNewhouse promoted a boxing show that the boxing community continues to discuss. A white tablecloth venue where fans were dazzled with gladiators dancing to the tune of the sweet science. That was 11 years ago.
For a decade since, VanNewhouse has guided the careers of pugilists to all corners of the globe, captured championships and changed lives.
This past Friday, he returned to his roots by promoting a seven-fight card in a city that is not just known for its rock-n-roll but for his rich history of boxing. The event sold out within days of its announcement, and the card lived up to the VanNewhouse Boxing reputation.
As the fans entered the venue, the vibe was a blend of a Las Vegas showcase and a throwback to the 1930’s Golden Age. Vendors lined the entrance and fans were able to create their own personal memories with photo opportunities behind backdrops typically reserved for officials and fighters. Observing the fans, one would believe they were at a formal event or at the arts in that most were dressed in a manner that reflected the respect of the sport along with a throwback to the days of old.
The attention to detail mirrored an artist paining a portrait that would stand the test of time. From the VIP room to the layout of the ballroom, fans were treated not just to a sporting event but to an experience. Guests witnessed an influx of celebrity guests from the sports and entertainment world including Cleveland’s favorite son Bernie Kosar all of which took the time to pose for photos and personal interaction.
Then it was fight time. The seven-bout card provided the fans with knockouts, and near-at-hand decisions. Each bout was carefully matched for maximum entertainment and provided each fighter to test their inner strength and mental fortitude. For most of the show, fans were on their feet cheering for their favorite pugilist and they transformed from athletes to gladiators while displaying true sportsmanship at the conclusion of the final bell.
People often ask, “What is Your Why.” In the quiet ballroom, in the early hours of Saturday morning, after taking a moment to reflect on that simple question, VanNewhouse stated “For far too long – Cleveland has watched many young promising careers falter. Mainly because there hasn’t been a consistent promoter to harness the market and provide a platform for them to develop. So, in a nutshell. NEWHOUSE BOXING will forge into 2023 to change that. We will own the market here – we will make the necessary investment and we will stand by the Cleveland fighters and fight teams along with those in the nearby region.”
It appears that the sweet science will once again become a permanent fixture in a city that was built on the backs of champions. It truly was a night to remember.
Results from “A Night To Remember”
Amir Mason KO 1 over Shauncy Perry
Avious Griffin KO 1 Auguston Junco
Danny Rodenberger UD over Jeremy Ramos
Abdullah Mason TKO over Manuel Guzman
Walter Santibanes MD over Chaise Nelson
Roy Barringer KO 4 over Michael Moore
Mark “Too Sharp” David Jr UD over Diego Luque
Bill Petrello
December 20, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Awesome! Love this!