NABF Boxing News

President’s Report – July 2011

It is with sadness that I report the death of Nick Charles and former WBC Champion Billy Costello. While I had the pleasure of knowing, as well as spending time with Nick Charles, it was a casual relationship which I greatly enjoyed. I admired Nick’s courage in fighting the good fight until the final bell sounded. In fact, this year, we named an NABF Award after him: “The Nick Charles Good Guy Award.” Actor Holt McCannally, star of “Lights Out,” was the first recipient, and Nick was pleased to hear this. Nick made the most of his remaining time by professing his love of his wife Cory, as well as his adorable daughter Giovanna.

I knew Billy Costello much longer, as we first met shortly after his winning the Super Lightweight title, as I worked for the New York Boxing Commission as an Inspector for his title bouts against Ronnie Shields, Irish Leroy Haley, and Saul Mamby. These fights all took place in his hometown of Kingston, New York, at the Neighborhood Youth Center. During those times I also met his dad, Bill, and brother Vinnie; another damn good fighter. Billy was a true “blue collar” individual who cherished his fans and loved being in their company. He was an ordinary man with no airs about his title, as his only thought was being a Champion to his friends. We remained friends for over twenty years, and would meet up at the fights in New York when Billy and I were both judging. Both of these gentlemen made their mark in boxing, and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing them.

On a lighter note, we received many compliments on the Atlantic City Convention. As always, we owe a debt of gratitude to our NABF staff and volunteers – especially, Rudy, Rick, Don, Steve, my lovely wife, Linda, and especially Chris “She Got Class” Stillson, whose performance always exceeds expectations. We will consider sites for future scheduling later in June, or possibly July. In addition we will look into future conventions at all inclusive, (meals, drinks, etc.) venues.

Enforcing timely Mandatory Defenses continues, thereby insuring a level playing field for both our Champion’s and Challengers. This is very important in maintaining the value and integrity of the NABF Title.

At this time we would like to acknowledge those individuals who supported our recent Convention by taking ads in our Journal: Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Gary Shaw, Global Boxing, Cleto Reyes, Sullivan & Gallishaw Law Office, Square Ring, Prizefight, Roland Jankelson, K2 Promotions, DiBella Entertainment, Connecticut Hall of Fame, BWAA, Boxing 360.

In closing we wish all members a Happy and safe 4th of July. Enjoy the family gathering, or wherever your travel takes you.

Until next month:
All the best,
Joe Dwyer