By Boxing Bob Newman

Canastota, NY has once again assumed it’s rightful ring name of “Title Town, USA” this weekend as throngs of boxing faithful have descended upon the upstate, NY town to behold the 2017 enshrinement of boxing immortality. The festivities began with opening ceremonies on Thursday, including ringside lectures.

Emcee James “Smitty” Smith has resumed his role for the second year in a row, beginning with introducing the widow of late 2017 inductee Johnny “Mi Vida Loca” Tapia, Teresa Tapia and her three sons. Teresa reflected on Johnny’s life in and outside the ring and how much he would’ve loved being here with all the boxing fans. James “Lights Out” Toney also addressed the crowd about his sure-to-be Hall of Fame career.

This year’s inductees led the way during the fist casting on Friday afternoon. Evander Holyfield, Marco Antonio Barrera, judge Jerry Roth, trainer Johnny Lewis, commentators Barry Tompkins and Steve Farhood had their fists cast first, while new visitors Shawn Porter, Danny Jacobs, “Smokin’” Bert Cooper and Jessie Vargas awaited their turns.

There will be a “Fiesta Night” tonight at the local party house, Rusty Rail, while a few miles away, the Turning Stone Resort and Casino will host another installment of Shobox- The Next Generation, headlined by the NABF Super Lightweight title fight between champion Regis Prograis and Joel Diaz, Jr.