1978 Larry Holmes Edward J. Neil Memorial Fighter of the Year Award Plaque

The Edward J. Neil Award: A Tribute to Boxing Excellence

A Prestigious Honor in the World of Boxing

The Edward J. Neil Award stands as a beacon of excellence within the boxing community, akin to the MVP award in other sports. Since its inception in 1938, this memorial plaque has been awarded annually by the Boxing Writers’ Association to the fighter of the year, celebrating outstanding service and achievement in the sport.

Larry Holmes: The 1978 Recipient

In 1978, the legendary Larry Holmes was honored with this prestigious award, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. That year, Holmes clinched the WBC heavyweight title for the first time, a testament to his prowess and dedication in the ring. The award itself is a remarkable artifact, measuring approximately 15-1/2” x 10-1/2” and weighing 8.5 lbs, featuring a black wooden base adorned with a casted metal bust of Edward J. Neil, laurelled leaves, boxing gloves, and a boxing ring.

Design and Inscription

The award’s inscription reads: “THE EDWARD J. NEIL MEMORIAL FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO BOXING IN 1978 PRESENTED BY BOXING WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK TO LARRY HOLMES”. This inscription, rendered in relief, captures the essence of the award’s significance and the honor bestowed upon Holmes.

• Dimensions: 15-1/2” x 10-1/2”
• Weight: 8.5 lbs
• Material: Black wooden base with casted metal elements
• Condition: Near Mint (NRMT), with two holes in the base from previous wall mounting

A Piece of Boxing History

This award is not just a trophy; it is a piece of boxing history, embodying the spirit and achievements of one of the sport’s greatest champions. Our consignor shared that this award was taken directly from the wall of Holmes’ bar, adding a layer of personal history and authenticity to this extraordinary piece.

For those interested in exploring more about such remarkable artifacts, our sports memorabilia auctions offer a treasure trove of historical items. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, our auctions provide a unique opportunity to own a piece of sports history. If you have your own items to share with the world, consider our consignment services to bring your memorabilia to a wider audience.

Discover the allure of boxing memorabilia and other sports treasures by visiting our appraisal services to understand the value of your own collection. Join us in celebrating the legacy of sports legends like Larry Holmes and explore the stories behind the artifacts that define their careers.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.