On February 15, the sweet science took center stage at the world-class Mohegan Sun Arena (Uncasville, Connecticut, USA), as boxing’s future shared the spotlight with the present. In a dynamic fusion of amateur promise and professional prowess, Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Invitational XII lit up the afternoon before CES Boxing’s Love & War pro card, delivering a high-energy showcase of some of the most exciting young talent in the USA.
For Jimmy Burchfield Sr., founder of CES Boxing and a cornerstone of the East Coast boxing scene, promoting the next generation is more than tradition—it’s a mission. And this year’s 12th edition of the Classic Invitational delivered exactly that: a glimpse into boxing’s bright future.
Amateur fighters from New England, New Jersey, Florida, and beyond converged at the arena, representing powerhouse gyms like B.A.T. Center, Muscle & Flow, Revolution Training, and Legacy Boxing Club. With families and fans in attendance, each fighter was awarded a WBC medal, a symbolic nod to their passion, dedication, and dreams of greater glory.
Among the standout performances:
Aiden Balletto (B.A.T. Center RI), son of former lightweight champ Gary “Tiger” Balletto, earned a hard-fought win over Eliandel Guzman (Grundy’s Gym RI) in the 132 lbs Novice Class.
Gilbert Kabamba (Muscle & Flow Gym MA), the 2024 National Golden Gloves Champion and currently ranked #2 heavyweight in the nation, dominated Gary Charles (Revolution Training CT) in the 198+ lbs Open Class.
Shyne Conce (LFG Boxing NH), a 3-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, outboxed Yohenry Rosario (Legacy Boxing Club NJ), the East Coast Amateur Champ, in a thrilling 121 lbs Open Class bout.
Miguel Laureano (Rose City Boxing CT) of Puerto Rico scored a big win against New England Silver Gloves champ Lizandro Juarez (Wilner Mendez Boxing) in the 143 lbs Open Class.
Other notable winners included Dennis Piludu, Josh Folger, Victor Guerra, Efthimious Barkas, and CJ Dummett, all proving they’re names to watch in the amateur ranks.
The Classic Invitational seamlessly bridged the gap between grassroots boxing and the professional stage, setting the tone for the CES Boxing Love & War card that followed, featuring pros like Rashidi Ellis, Kevin Walsh, Mike Fontanez, and Amelia Moore.
Building the Future of Boxing
With over three decades of experience, CES Boxing continues to be a dominant force in the sport, developing top-tier talent like Jamaine Ortiz, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, and many more. Events like the Classic Invitational are a testament to Burchfield’s commitment to the sport from the ground up.
As always, Mohegan Sun Arena proved the perfect host, reaffirming its status as one of the most beloved and decorated venues in the nation.