In the Ring with the Arts: A Fundraising Gala at Gleason’s Gym for Boxing Champions of Yore

Under the towering bridges and time-weathered brick warehouses of Brooklyn, the world’s oldest sport is poised to jab, cross, and hook its way into a different kind of arena. But this time, the prizefight isn’t for a title belt or a marquee win. No, the bell rings for a cause as noble as the sport itself – to support the very titans who once held the canvas stage with heart, soul, and iron fists.

On July 8th, from the renowned Gleason’s Gym, the world of boxing throws a punch of love, respect, and support for its retired warriors. CHAMPIONS, a fundraiser exhibition merging the worlds of fine art and boxing, is brought to you by T.K.O.O. X OCLESSE, in collaboration with the World Boxing Council, the Jose Sulaiman Charity Boxer’s Fund, and WBC Cares.

The ancient sport of boxing, which first graced the Olympic Games of Greece in 688 BC, rings in our collective consciousness with more myth and magic than arguably any other sport. Its raw, visceral allure powers not just the fighters who’ve lived it but also the artists who’ve captured it. Hence, CHAMPIONS – an event harnessing this unique intersection of power and grace.

Among the attendees are confirmed Guests of Honour: former champions Iran Barkley, Donny Lalonde, Heather Hardy, Doug De Witt, Michael Olajide, Holt McCallany, Vinny Paz, Tim Witherspoon, and Junior Jones. The legendary canvas of Gleason’s Gym will echo once more with the stories and experiences of these eminent figures, reminding us that our love for the sweet science isn’t merely about the heat of the contest but the indomitable spirit that fuels it.

The event is the brainchild of a Champion father and artist daughter duo, Donny and Bailey Lalonde, supported by the Lalonde family. Their noble initiative, T.K.O.O. (Taking Kare of Our Own), is devoted to crafting tangible solutions for boxing champions to lead wealthy, healthy, and purposeful lives even after they’ve hung up the gloves.

Driven by art, the exhibition boasts an array of exquisite fine art portraits by Mambu Bayoh, capturing the regal essence of the boxing legends. Mambu, a Sierra Leonean/Liberian-born, New York City-based photographer, is renowned for his compelling portraits, his work a harmonious blend of visual voice and narrative, bridging the gap between audience and subject.

Adding to this unique showcase, a medley of New York-based and international artists, such as Layla Love, Harry Benson, and David “MrStarCity” White, will display multimedia boxing art under the expert curation of Anthony Haden-Guest and Bailey Lalonde, with assistance from Anastasiia Ageeva and Amanda Baldi.

Even the ambiance won’t be spared from artistry, as Mark Whitfield, Ladell Mclin, and others provide a live musical backdrop, while Anthony Haden-Guest and David Leslie, alongside a surprise former WBC World Champion, promise a thrilling exhibition fight.

But this grand soirée isn’t merely about celebration. It’s about giving back to the warriors who once enthralled us. In partnership with the WBC and WBC Cares, 30% of sales proceeds will be donated to the Jose Sulaiman WBC Boxer’s Fund to assist fighters in need of financial support, while another 30% will be split amongst the Champions in attendance.

To uphold the spirit of the WBC Clean Boxing Program, the gala is partnering with local health food and wellness practitioners, such as Tracie Martyn and Sacred Silence Acupuncture. In a final nod to boxing’s wellness focus, the event will be alcohol-free.

As Bruce Silverglade, owner of Gleason’s Gym, once put it, “Boxing is in the thread of everything.” From the art on the walls to the atmosphere in the air, the spirit of boxing will permeate this grand event, weaving a thread that binds all attendees in their shared love for the sport.

In collaboration with OCLESSE, this grand affair is set to be an unforgettable evening of VIP Legends, world-renowned fine art, and live performances. So if you are drawn by the pull of the ring, the allure of the arts, or simply a love for the sweet science, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Make your reservations now on their website or by emailing hello@oclesse.com.

Stay updated by following the event on Instagram at Bailey Lalonde and Taking Kare of Our Own. See you ringside!