Events

‘Cinderella Man’ James Braddock statue was unveiled in North Bergen, New Jersey.

On Sept. 27, 2018 a stunning 10-foot statue of boxer James J. Braddock was unveiled at the James Braddock Park, at the intersection that leads to Boulevard East. The 1,500 pound statue of the world heavyweight champion, created by sculptor Zenos Frudakis was unveiled at a celebratory ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2018 attended by a large crowd including many of Braddock’s relatives, numerous local and county officials, as well as a collection of celebrated boxers including Gerry Cooney, Pat Murphy, Randy Neumann, and the legendary “Bayonne Bleeder,” Chuck Wepner. Also in attendance was Desmond Boyle and several members of State Of Fitness Boxing.

Braddock was a North Bergen resident who overcame overwhelming odds to defeat Max Baer for the heavyweight title in 1935. Prior to that he had experienced a promising early career followed by a string of defeats. His inspiring return to the ring and triumph through determination, grit, and perseverance was recounted in the 2005 film “Cinderella Man,” starring Russell Crowe.