Fenway Hosting Its First Competitive Boxing Event Since 1956

The first boxing event in nearly 75 years is coming to Boston's iconic Fenway Park this weekend and there's still time for you to catch the action.

"Fight Night at Fenway" is bringing boxing back to the ballpark for the first time since 1956 this Saturday, June 7, and fans are getting excited. Especially since they won't have to endure any inclement weather to watch the bouts.

Though you might think the fight will be on the field, think again. These promoters have a totally different plan.

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When Was The Last Boxing Event at Fenway Park?

It's been since 1956 since competitive boxing took place at Fenway.

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Back in the 1920's boxing in large, outdoor stadiums became quite popular. Promoters wanted to fit as many fans as possible and taking things outdoors helped them do that.

For Fenway, that meant summer boxing matches when the Red Sox weren't in town and they hosted some pretty big fights over the years.

Perhaps the most significant match was Jack Sharkey vs Jack Delaney in 1927. The two heavyweights battled it out for ten full rounds in front of the Fenway faithful, with Sharkey winning by unanimous decision in the end. He later went on to win the world heavyweight championship in 1932.

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Stadium boxing started to fade in popularity in the 1950s however and after the 1956 bout between Tony DeMarco and Vince Martinez, Fenway never hosted another boxing event.

Until now.

This Saturday night boxing is finally returning to Boston's historic ballpark.

Who Is Boxing During 'Fight Night at Fenway'?

Nolan Brothers Boxing has made this new event possible and they're doing it differently than before.

The plan is build the ring under the seats. Yes, the ring will be set up outside the concession stand in Fenway's "Big Concourse." The widened walkway area behind the right field stands has plenty of rooms for the ring, spectators seats and some standing spots.

Tickets are still available here for the 5 P.M. event featuring 11 professional bouts and headlined by Thomas O'Toole vs Vaughn Alexander. O'Toole is currently an undefeated middleweight, but he's facing a seasoned veteran this weekend.