What a joyous event it was at the Grand Opening of the WBC Legends of Boxing Museum in San Bernardino, California on June 27th 2008. The museum pays honor to the achievements and accomplishments of the greatest boxers of all time.

The day started with the champs entering the museum and placing a few of their most prized possessions into the display cases. Danny “Little Red” Lopez started off the festivities as he made his grand entrance into the museum and was swarmed by adoring fans. He placed a Sports Illustrated magazine that featured him on the cover that he had in a special place in his home and it is now in the museum forever. Armando Ramos, one of the most successful and wealthy fighters of his time, made his entrance and the adoring fans rushed to him as well. He placed one of his robes and a pair of his boxing shoes into the display cases which were both part of his attire in his second world title fight that he won. Armando Muniz was next as his charisma captivated the fans with his articulate words of thank you. He placed a few of his treasures into the case while the eyes of fans stayed glued to him. Ken Norton, the second fighter to beat the great Muhammad Ali, made his entrance and the crowd again went into chaos. He was rushed by television media, radio, journalists, and once again those loving fans. He placed an autographed book and autographed photos and placed them into the cases to enshrine his boxing legacy for all time.

After the placing of items into the display cases the ribbon cutting ceremony took place. The godfather of the WBC Dr. Jose Sulaiman, the founder of American Sports University Dr. Harry Hwang, Head Chairman of the Museum Dr. Rudy Tellez, and the Mayor of San Bernardino Patrick J. Morris all had the honor in cutting the ribbon thus solidifying the home of the WBC Legends of Boxing Museum.

The WBC Class of 2008 Induction Ceremony was next in the beautiful FOX THEATER as VIP guests enjoyed a luncheon followed by the presentation of numerous awards. The fans were treated to more stars as legendary trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. made a grand entrance followed by his brother and former title holder Jeff Mayweather. Also, inducted were boxing greats and WBC champions; Paul Banke, Armando Muniz, Diego Corrales, Armando Ramos, Rodolfo “El Gato” Gonzalez, Genaro “Chicanito” Hernandez, Rene Arredondo, Chango Carmona, Bobby Chacon, Gabriel Ruelas, and Danny “Little Red” Lopez.

Retired Heavyweight King Lennox Lewis was also honored but unable to attend. Lewis sent a personal message via streaming media accepting his award and thanking his “Presidente” Dr. Sulaiman. 

The true media rush came when heated rivals Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales made their way toward one another. The legendary Mexican brawlers greeted Sulaiman and then in a surprise to all, shook hands and embraced one another. The sworn enemies hugged and took numerous photos together with the fans. 

The two champs were later honored along with Laila Ali with the WBC Legends Award. Ali is currently pregnant and was unable to attend due to doctors orders. Her trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. accepted her award and recited a spoken word styled poem he wrote in honor of the female champ.    

What a historic day it was.

These fighters were the true sign of class and appreciation and they will forever be WBC LEGENDS OF BOXING.