Cotto, Mancini headline 2026 Class of AC Boxing Hall of Fame

The 2026 inductees to the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame represent the sport's past, present, and future.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:47am

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The announcement of the 2026 class of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) highlights emerging trends in boxing's recognition and evolution. Led by four-division champion Miguel Cotto, the inductees include legendary fighters, unsung heroes behind the scenes, and pioneers who built the foundation of Atlantic City's boxing scene. The class also features the induction of Jacqui Frazier-Lyde, recognizing the growing prominence of women's boxing, and the posthumous induction of longtime boxing columnist Chuck Betson, underscoring the vital role of media in preserving the sport's history.

Why it matters

The ACBHOF's 2026 class reflects the sport's evolution, with a focus on holistic recognition, historical correction, regional revival, and an emphasis on boxing's legacy. By honoring a diverse range of contributors, the ACBHOF is shaping the narrative around the sport's past, present, and future, and highlighting the importance of preserving the rich heritage of regional boxing hubs like Atlantic City.

The details

The 2026 ACBHOF class is led by four-division champion Miguel Cotto, whose success across multiple weight classes embodies the modern fighter's ambition. The inclusion of figures like Harold Knight and Mike Tinley, frequent competitors in 1980s Atlantic City, recognizes the contributions of journeymen and local favorites who built the foundation of the city's boxing scene. The induction of Craig Johnson, a manager and brother of the late IBF lightweight champion Leavander Johnson, highlights the growing appreciation for the crucial role of trainers, managers, and family members in the sport.

  • The 2026 ACBHOF induction weekend will be held on September 25-27 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.

The players

Miguel Cotto

A four-division champion who dominated in Atlantic City with three undefeated knockout victories, Cotto's induction is a cornerstone moment that embodies the modern fighter's ambition to succeed across multiple weight classes.

Harold Knight

A frequent competitor in 1980s Atlantic City, Knight is one of the unsung heroes being recognized for their contributions to building the foundation of the city's boxing scene.

Mike Tinley

Another frequent competitor in 1980s Atlantic City, Tinley is being inducted alongside Knight for their roles in establishing the city's boxing legacy.

Jacqui Frazier-Lyde

The daughter of former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, Frazier-Lyde's induction is a powerful statement recognizing the growing prominence of women's boxing and correcting historical omissions.

Craig Johnson

The manager and brother of the late IBF lightweight champion Leavander Johnson, Johnson's induction highlights the growing appreciation for the crucial role of trainers, managers, and family members in the sport.

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What’s next

The 2026 ACBHOF induction weekend at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City could signal a potential renaissance for boxing in the city, as the organization's continued presence and annual events help revitalize the local boxing scene through strategic investments and talent development.

The takeaway

The 2026 ACBHOF class highlights key trends in boxing, including a holistic recognition of all contributors, a concerted effort to correct historical omissions and celebrate the achievements of marginalized groups, a focus on preserving the legacy of regional boxing hubs, and a growing appreciation for the historical context and heritage of the sport.