Lomachenko, Rigondeaux to donate fight gloves to Hall of Fame

In anticipation for the historic fight tomorrow — the first time ever where two, two-time Olympic Gold medalists meet in the professional ranks — the International Boxing Hall of Fame has taken notice.

As reported by ESPN, both Vasyl Lomachenko and Guillermo Rigondeaux have agreed to donate their fight-night gloves to the IBHOF in Canastota, New York in order to honor the occasion.

"The Hall of Fame's mission is to honor and preserve boxing history and this fight has historic implications as it is the first time two-time Olympic gold medalists have fought as professionals," Hall of Fame executive director Edward Brophy said on Wednesday at the final pre-fight news conference. "To have two of the most decorated Olympic boxers of all time battle with the junior lightweight championship on the line promises to be a memorable night for the sport.

"We are thrilled that both fighters and their camps agreed to donate the gloves they will use against each other. While the Hall's collection of fight-worn artifacts continues to grow year after year, this is the first time that gloves will go right from the boxers' fists to the hands of the Hall of Fame in the ring immediately after the bout ends."

Lomachenko (9-1, 7 KOs) won Olympic Gold medals while representing Ukraine in both 2008 and 2012, all while amassing an unthinkable amateur record of 396-1. Meanwhile Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs), who represented Cuba, took Gold medals in both the 2000 and 2004 Olympic games, and had an outstanding amateur record of 463-12.

So while their professional resume isn’t as long as most other top professionals, you can rest assured that the two fighters are as seasoned as they come when it comes to the sweet science. And both fighters should have their skills on full display tomorrow night on ESPN.