The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) and the International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame (IWBHOF) will present super middleweight Nisa Rodriguez with the Promising Young Fighter of the Year award during their 12th annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Sunday, September 15 at Russo's on the Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
Rodriguez (2-0), a New York City police officer, is a three-time gold medalist in the U.S. Golden Gloves Championships.
“Being selected as the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame's Newcomer of the Year as a woman is an honor that represents recognition of extraordinary talent, hard work and potential in the sport,” Rodriguez said. “For New Yorkers, this not only highlights an individual achievement, but it is also a proud moment for the local community and the rich history of boxing in New York. This recognition will be a powerful motivator and open the door to further opportunities in the sport.”
Rodriguez will also be one of 10 women to be honored at a special tribute, “Boxing Women Cops,” as part of the IWBHOF's two-day event in Las Vegas on April 4. The evening following the event will be “Night of Stars 2,” a semi-formal dinner honoring the IWBHOF's Class of 2025 inductees.
The boxer will be honored at the “Women Cops Who Box” gala along with Cathy Williams, Alex Love, Melanie Costa, Melinda Cooper, Stephanie Hung, Kaianna Williams, Terry Moss, Tracy Byrd and Anne Marie Carrizales.
“This is an incredible honor and a testament to the dedication and hard work in both careers,” Rodriguez added. “Being recognized by the Women's Hall of Fame for her achievements in both boxing and policing highlights the unique contributions and impact in both fields. Juggling the demands of a career in law enforcement with the rigorous training and discipline required in boxing is an incredible feat.”
A former teacher, Rodriguez is an eight-time New York Daily News Golden Glove Award winner, six-time Metro Championship winner, two-time Empire State Cup winner and a Caribbean and Central American Championship gold medalist. He served with the NYPD for two years, stationed throughout the city on the Rapid Response Unit, specializing in all crimes involving juveniles and assisting families in homicide cases.
“It's truly an honor to work with Nisa Rodriguez,” said Rodriguez's manager, New York City attorney Keith Sullivan. “She's a great role model, takes her training seriously and is a first-class person both in and out of the ring. I'm excited to go on this journey with her and see where it takes her.”
