“Maine’s Biggest Stage: Boxing Returns to Cross Insurance Arena After Nearly 30 Years”

Portland, Maine is set to host its first boxing event in almost 30 years at the Cross Insurance Arena on June 15. The main event will feature the World Boxing Organization bantamweight title fight between champion Dylan Price and Paul Hayo. This event marks a significant moment for the city and for the sport of boxing in Maine.

One of the local fighters on the card is Wade Faria, a New England Golden Gloves middleweight champion who will be making his professional debut at the event. Faria, who trains at the Portland Boxing Club, expressed his excitement about performing on Maine’s biggest stage and following in the footsteps of past champions who have fought at the arena.

The return of pro boxing to Cross Insurance Arena is a nostalgic moment for many, including former world champion Joey Gamache, who fought there in 1994. Gamache reflected on the great exposure and experience of fighting at the arena and emphasized the importance of having high-level competition to draw interest back to the sport in Maine.

The event will also feature other local fighters, including Casey Streeter, the New England superwelterweight champion, and Ilyas Bashir, the New England lightweight champion. With tickets starting at $35, fans have the opportunity to witness an exciting night of boxing and support their local fighters as they showcase their talent on the big stage.

The organizers of the event, including Michael LoConte, Bob Russo, and Arthur Pelullo, have worked hard to bring pro boxing back to Portland and provide fans with the opportunity to experience the thrill of live boxing once again. With a lineup of talented fighters and a historic venue, the June 15 event promises to reignite the passion for boxing in Maine and create a memorable night for all in attendance.