Historic USA Boxing Tournament Comes to New Bedford This Fall

Buckle up, SouthCoast, for the knockout event of the year.

The Whaler Inn & Suites in New Bedford is about to transform into the epicenter of New England boxing history. On November 1 and 2, USA Boxing’s 137th Annual New England Championships will take over the event center at 500 Hathaway Road for two days of action and adrenaline.

As the oldest boxing tournament in the country, the New England Championships have tested the grit and skill of amateur fighters for more than a century. This year, boxers from across the region will step into the ring for the chance to claim the official USA Boxing New England Championship Belt, the title of No. 1 in their weight class, and a paid trip to Nationals in Lubbock, Texas.

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It’s not just the athletes who have something at stake. Coaches will also be recognized with special belt awards, including Best High-Performance Coaching and Most Champions Produced, along with the opportunity to join Team New England on the national stage.

A Partnership of Prestige

The 2025 tournament brings an exciting partnership with Classic Entertainment & Sports (CES), adding another layer of professionalism and prestige to an already historic event. For fans, that means a polished, high-energy experience across two full days and more than 20 fights.

Spectators will be able to enjoy the bouts all day long, with access to a full bar and food service inside the venue. As event promoter Sophia Gomes Sylvia of Sassy Angel Events explained, “It’s an all-day event, with families coming to cheer on these young athletes. People will want to eat, and we’re making sure the venue and Ryan’s Sports Pub are ready to keep everyone fueled.”

Sophia’s Journey to the Ring

For Gomes Sylvia, promoting this championship is the latest milestone in a career built on organizing unique, high-energy events.

“I started off with midget wrestling,” she said. “From there it trickled into events like the Mass State Police boxing. Someone came to one of my events, saw how organized it was, and reached out. That opened the door to working with USA Boxing New England.”

Her hard work and reputation for running seamless events caught the attention of Alex Sepulveda, President of USA Boxing New England, who invited her to take on this year’s championship.

“It was basically one well-run event opened so many more opportunities” she said.

Fueling Up at Ryan’s Sports Pub

Located right inside the Whaler Inn & Suites, Ryan’s Sports Pub will be the perfect spot for fans and fighters to gather after the bell. Known for its hearty menu and fun drinks, Ryan’s is preparing for the big weekend:

• The Beach Bucket ($15): A tropical mix of Malibu, triple sec, grenadine, pineapple juice, and orange juice, served big and bold.
• Mozambique Chicken Pizza: A flavorful twist on a favorite, with just the right amount of spice.
• Bourbon Steak Tips: Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
• Fish & Chips: A New England classic, fried golden and served with all the fixings.

With a full menu available at the bar, Ryan’s will keep the energy going long after the final round.

Be a Part of History

The 137th USA Boxing New England Championships promise two unforgettable days of competition, community, and celebration. From the young amateur fighters chasing their dreams to the seasoned coaches building future champions, this is more than just a tournament, it’s a tradition.

The road to Nationals begins in New Bedford. Will you be there to see who earns their place in history?

For registration and more information, visit usaboxingne.org and for tickets, please reach out to Sophia at Sassy Angel Events.