Class of 2026

Melio Bettina (1916–1996) was a Connecticut-born professional boxer who rose to become one of the premier light heavyweights of his era. Born in Bridgeport and raised in Beacon, New York, Bettina won the Intercity Golden Gloves in 1934, defeating future champion Tony Zale. A southpaw known for his toughness and aggressive style, he captured the New York State Athletic Commission World Light Heavyweight Championship on February 3, 1939, stopping Tiger Jack Fox in the ninth round at Madison Square Garden. Bettina continued competing against many of boxing’s top fighters before retiring in 1948 with 83 victories, including 36 knockouts. He was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1996.

One of the most prominent promoters in New England, Cappiello was honored earlier this year with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Nolan Brothers Boxing. In addition to being involved with “The Contender” reality show, Cappiello has been lauded for his contributions to the Rocky Marciano Foundation. From 1996-2013, Cappiello promoted several events that featured Connecticut fighters. In 2009, Cappiello and Jimmy Burchfield of CES Promotions joined forces to create a powerhouse promotional organization. They are credited with helping keep boxing alive in New England.

Lou Dell, born Louis M. Della Ripa, was a true Connecticut boxing original whose life was intertwined with the sport he loved. After competing in more than 200 bouts across New England and New York, Dell found his calling at ringside, becoming one of the sport’s most respected timekeepers and officials. From Foxwoods to Mohegan Sun, he worked countless major bouts, keeping time for generations of fighters and some of boxing’s biggest names. Affectionately known as “Lou Dell at the Bell,” he brought professionalism, personality and passion to every fight. Even into his 90s, Dell remained a familiar and beloved presence at ringside, earning the respect of fighters, trainers and fellow officials. In 2005, he was named Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Official of the Year.

Since 1992, Ezzo has been a prominent referee and judge in the amateur and professional ranks in Connecticut. He has refereed nearly 400 pro bouts. Ezzo has refereed bouts involving several Connecticut Boxing Hall of Famers, including Peter Manfredo, Lawrence Clay-Bey, Gary Balletto Sr., and Ray Oliveira. Ezzo is also a noted historian when it comes to what many consider the heyday of boxing in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s.

A Dominican Republic native, Feliz is a former professional heavyweight who now runs the Champs Boxing Gym in Danbury in partnership with boxing manager AJ Galante. He trains sons Ali and Fernely Jr, the latter of whom is an undefeated prospect. Feliz discovered Hat City Boxing in Danbury in the late 1990s before the gym closed in 2001. Feliz learned enough at Hat City to become the first pro fighter out of Danbury. Feliz would have a 15-year professional career in which he would compile a 23-9 record.

After an 0-1-1 start to his career as an 18-year-old in 1986, Negron caught fire. The Bridgeport native went undefeated in his next 10 bouts. That streak included defeating Mike Cappiello to win the USA New England super featherweight title in May of 1991 in Fall River, Mass. Cappiello came into the bout with a 16-1 record. In August of 1991, Negron scored a TKO over Julio DeJesus to capture the USA New England featherweight crown. He made a successful title defense in February of 1992 with a TKO of Carlos Vergara. Though he lost his last two pro bouts in Florida to finish with a career record of 14-7-4, Negron fought two formidable opponents. Negron retired after six rounds in a bout against former world champion John John Molina, who had a 42-4 record when they met in October of 1997. In May of 1998, Negron lost a decision to 25-0 Frank Olsen. As an amateur, Joey Negron was a standout fighter who won three Western Massachusetts Golden Gloves titles and was a New England Golden Gloves champion rated #9 in the country.

In 2009, Rosa founded the Boxing in Faith Gym in New Haven with his wife Marilyn. He has earned praise for his ability to mentor and train both amateur and professionals that have come to his gym. One of the best prospects to come out of the gym was his son, Luis Rosa Jr., who passed away in a tragic auto accident in 2018. What makes Rosa’s gym unique is the faith aspect. Rosa uses faith-based principles in training. Assisted by his wife Marilyn, Rosa’s teaches fighters how to maintain proper spiritual and mental health.

Kent Ward has been a fixture of the New London boxing scene for years as a trainer with the Whaling City Athletic Club. Ward earned further acclaim when he established Championship Rounds, which is a program for boxers with disabilities like Parkinson’s Disease. For decades, Ward has dedicated a significant portion of his life to the sport of boxing while working extensively with local fighters and youth. His dedication has earned him widespread respect among peers, athletes, and residents throughout southeastern Connecticut. Ward has long been celebrated as an essential guardian of local athletic tradition.