The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (NVBHOF) is proud to announce the introduction of five inaugural Special Awards, a landmark initiative recognizing the extraordinary individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership and service have strengthened boxing far beyond championship competition.
The awards will be presented during the 14th Annual Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Gala Weekend, taking place August 14-15, 2026, at The Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, alongside the induction of the Hall of Fame Classes of 2025 and 2026.
While world champions are forever remembered for their achievements inside the ropes, boxing’s greatest legacy has also been built by the judges, trainers, promoters, advocates, families and innovators whose work often happens behind the scenes. The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame’s newest honors were created to ensure their contributions are recognized and celebrated for generations to come.
“Boxing has always been about more than what happens on fight night,” said Michelle Corrales-Lewis, CEO of the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. “These awards recognize the remarkable people whose leadership, integrity and commitment have helped shape our sport in countless ways. Their influence extends beyond championships and reminds us that boxing’s greatest strength has always been its community.”
The Inaugural 2026 Special Award Recipients
Marc of Distinction Award
Recipient: Dave Moretti
Named in honor of former Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Marc Ratner, this award recognizes individuals whose excellence in regulation, officiating, advocacy and leadership has upheld the integrity of professional boxing.
A respected Nevada Athletic Commission judge for decades, Dave Moretti is honored for his remarkable 50-year career officiating many of boxing’s most historic championship contests while earning the admiration of fighters, promoters and fellow officials around the world.
Yo Adrian Award
Recipient: Martha Vargas
Inspired by Adrian Balboa’s unwavering loyalty, strength and devotion to family in the Rocky film series, the Yo Adrian Award celebrates individuals whose commitment to family, community and boxing has left a lasting impact beyond competition.
Martha Vargas, the matriarch of one of boxing’s most respected families, is recognized for decades of unwavering support, leadership and encouragement that have positively influenced generations of athletes and members of the boxing community.
President’s Pillar of Excellence Award
Recipient: Larry Wade
Named in honor of internationally renowned strength and conditioning coach Larry Wade, this award recognizes excellence in athletic preparation while honoring the professionals whose expertise allows champions to perform at the highest level.
The inaugural honor is presented to Larry Wade, whose distinguished career has helped prepare world champions, Olympians and elite athletes across multiple sports. His work with fighters including Shawn Porter, Caleb Plant, Badou Jack, Luis Ortiz, Jake Paul, Rolando Romero and Shane Mosley Jr. has established him as one of boxing’s most respected performance coaches.
The “Uncle Bill” Award
Recipient: Bill “Uncle Bill” Caplan
Named after legendary boxing publicist Bill “Uncle Bill” Caplan, this award recognizes individuals whose integrity, professionalism, compassion and lifelong service have left an enduring mark on the sport.
For more than six decades, Bill “Uncle Bill” Caplan has represented world champions, promoted iconic events and mentored countless fighters, promoters and journalists. His generosity and unwavering commitment to boxing have made him one of the sport’s most beloved ambassadors.
Trailblazer Award
Recipient: Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)
The Trailblazer Award honors individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership and innovation continue to expand opportunities and shape the future of boxing.
The inaugural recipient, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), is recognized for transforming women’s boxing by elevating female athletes to main-event status, producing championship events that showcase women’s boxing on the sport’s biggest stages and helping secure record-breaking purses that have expanded opportunities throughout the industry. Through its investment in athletes and commitment to advancing women’s boxing, MVP has helped reshape the landscape of the sport while inspiring the next generation of champions.
A New Annual Tradition
Beginning this year, the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame’s Special Awards will become an annual tradition, recognizing individuals and organizations whose influence extends beyond the ring and whose contributions continue to strengthen boxing’s future.
The 14th Annual Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Gala Weekend will feature fan events, community activities and celebrations honoring boxing’s rich history while recognizing those whose passion and dedication continue to move the sport forward.
About the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame
Founded in 2013, the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of boxing by honoring the athletes, officials, trainers, promoters, journalists and industry leaders whose contributions have shaped the sport. Through its annual induction gala, educational initiatives and community outreach, the organization celebrates boxing’s past while inspiring future generations.
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