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Kenny Adams

Born: Sept. 25, 1940 Induction: 2024

In Springfield, MO. A decorated US Army veteran, Adams was head coach of the successful Army team that captured several national titles. He was assistant coach of the 1984 US Olympic boxing team that won eleven medals, including nine gold, and head coach of the 1988 team that won eight medals, including three gold.

In early 1989 he relocated to Las Vegas and began training professional boxers. Success came quickly as his first world champion was Rene Jacquot, who defeated Donald Curry for the WBC super welterweight belt in 1989’s “Upset of the Year.” Regarded as a strict disciplinarian who places great emphasis on the mental aspect of the sport, he has guided 26 world champions including Diego Corrales, Edwin Valero, Freddie Norwood, Frankie Liles, Terence Crawford, Johnny Tapia, Jorge Linares. Ray Mercer, Al Cole, Vince Phillips, Charles Murray, Eddie Cook and Kennedy McKinney.

 

At 83, he is still active in the sport.

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