The long awaited statue of the late International Boxing Federation (IBF) Lightweight World Champion Leavander Johnson, created by world renowned sculptor and New Jersey native, Brian Hanlon, is now complete and will be unveiled during a ceremony at Center City Park in Atlantic City, New Jersey on June 4, 2011. The Park is located on Atlantic Avenue between North Carolina and South Carolina Avenues. The Ceremony will begin promptly at 11am.
Johnson, an Atlantic City native son and hero, will be immortalized forever in the heart of his hometown where he will be an inspiration and a constant reminder that “You too can achieve your dream.” The unveiling ceremony is open to the general public and residents of Atlantic City and surrounding communities are encouraged to attend the event.
Leavander Johnson (12/24/1969 – 9/22/2005) compiled a career record of 34-5-2 with 26 wins by way of knockout. Johnson was born and raised in Atlantic City and trained throughout his childhood and professional boxing career at the Atlantic City PAL under the watchful eye of his father Bill who continues to instruct the youths of today. Johnson first became champion by winning the IBO Lightweight title in 1995. After three previous attempts failed, Johnson finally captured the vacant IBF Lightweight title on June 17, 2005 with a 7th round TKO of Stefano Zoff in Milan, Italy.
Three months later, on September 17, 2005 in Las Vegas, Johnson defended his title for the first time against Jesus Chavez in a fight that Johnson lost when it was stopped in the 11th round. Johnson later collapsed in the locker room and was rushed to the hospital where emergency surgery was performed in an attempt to correct a subdural hematoma. Tragically, his condition did not improve and Johnson passed away September 22, 2005 with his family by his side.
