Anyone who's read the autobiography titled I'll Be Damned by The Young and the Restless' Eric Braeden (Victor Newman) knows the actor has led quite an interesting life. But he better start penning book number two, because the excitement just keeps on coming.
The German-born actor, who has spent the last 37 years playing Genoa City's love-to-hate patriarch Victor Newman, has been named grand marshal of the 2017 International Boxing Hall of Fame Parade of Champions.
"I am deeply honored to be amongst athletes I have admired for so many years," said Braeden in a statement about the event scheduled to take place Sunday, June 11, at 1:00 PM in Canastota, New York.
Adds IBHOF Executive Director Edward Brophy: "The Hall of Fame is so happy that Eric Braeden, one of the most recognized actors in the world and lifelong boxing fan, will be in Canastota in June to serve as the 2017 parade grand marshal. He has led an incredible life and his acting career is iconic. It will be a remarkable day in 'Boxing's Hometown' when he leads the Parade of Champions."
This year's parade is part of the Induction Weekend ceremonies taking place June 8-11. Inductees include boxers Evander "The Real Deal" Holyfield, Marco Antonio Barrera, Johnny "Mi Vida Loca" Tapia, and Eddie Booker; trainer Johnny Lewis; ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Sr.; judge Jerry Roth; journalist/broadcaster Steve Farhood; and broadcaster Barry Tompkins.
Over 35 boxing stars from the United States and abroad will be highlighted in the Parade of Champions, including Marvelous Marvin Hagler, "The Raging Bull" Jake LaMotta, "Irish" Micky Ward, James "Lights Out" Toney, Livingstone Bramble, "Jesse" James Leija, Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker, Michael "Little Hands of Stone" Carbajal, and Humberto "Chiquita" Gonzalez.
"With the lineup of marching bands, boxing celebrities, community organizations, and now Eric Braeden, this should be our biggest parade ever and an unforgettable day for all," said parade chairperson Charlene Barres.
For more information on the 2017 Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, call (315) 697-7095, visit online at www.ibhof.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/InternationalBoxingHallofFame and on Twitter at @BoxingHall.
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