City gets behind Cody Crowley
Saturday proclaimed Cody Crowley Day in Peterborough ahead of boxer’s title defence at Memorial Centre
As his star continues to rise, boxing champion Cody Crowley says he need only look upon his local roots to keep himself grounded.
In fact, there is very little that separates him from anyone else from Peterborough and area, the Douro native said after Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett proclaimed Saturday as Cody Crowley Day in the city during a Monday ceremony in front of city hall.
“The only difference is I’m punching people in the face,” he said with a laugh.
On Saturday, the Canadian Professional Boxing Council super-welterweight international champion will defend his title against Jamaica’s Richard Holmes at the Peterborough Memorial Centre as part of Homecoming II.
The boxer thanked those who have supported his journey, explaining what it was like to first compete before a crowd of 18 and eventually some 3,500 filling the seats of his hometown arena, referring to his 10-round decision win over Mexico’s Edgar Ortega on May 13.
“That’s what fighting is all about,” he said, adding how that raucous support brings a boxer out of his corner, fuelling him to continue. “I’ll fight here instead of Vegas, any day.”
Crowley said he is honoured to have his own day and The Crippler said he’ll do his best to get the result his hometown fans desire.
“I’m going out swinging, and I’m hoping (Holmes) goes out on the canvas,” he said.
Serving as a sparring partner for Floyd Mayweather, who defeated MMA star Conor McGregor in last month’s mega-match last month, has helped him greatly.
“Nobody can show me something I haven’t seen before,” Crowley said.
Headlining the first pro boxing card in the city in 36 years, while being self-promoted, has also taught the boxer a lot about the administration side.
“It’s a lot to deal with ... but now I’m better able to cope with it,” he said.
Trainer and manager Ibn Cason said it wasn’t long after Crowley came to him in Las Vegas, where they train, that he discovered the zeal the athlete demonstrates. His skills quickly progressed as their professional relationship flourished, he told those gathered.
“He is definitely a role model for youth. I’m proud of him,” he said.
One of the things that makes Crowley great is what is happening right here in Peterborough, Cason pointed out. “You guys have done a fantastic job of raising him ... I’m really glad you guys are behind him supporting him.”
Bennett issued the proclamation, before it was presented to the boxer, who sports a sparkling 12-0 record with six knockouts. “This is a city of champions ... and we’re on the verge of becoming a champion in another field.”
Coun. Dean Pappas praised Crowley and his family for all of their hard work, comparing their efforts to what must be done to run a successful business.
“It’s the same. If he doesn’t do the work, he doesn’t get paid,” he said.
A public weigh-in will be held with all participants from the fight card at The Social Pub (formerly Sin City) starting at 6 p.m. on Friday.
Tickets for Saturday’s event, which begins at 7 p.m. are available at the PMC box office. Call 705743-3561 for more information.
Crowley is also doing a meet and greet on Thursday from noon to 2 p.m. at the Mercedes Benz Peterborough dealership on Crawford Drive.