HYANNIS, Massachusetts – [HN NOTES] – I was extremely sad yesterday to hear the news of the passing of Mr. George Maddox, a legendary local boxer, dedicated trainer, and inspirational mentor for our local youth. I knew of the renowned local boxer while growing up, but the first time I ever really had a conversation with Mr. Maddox was on a dark, cold winter’s evening over twenty years ago. I had been studying Uechi-Ryū, an Okinawan karate style, with Mr. Arthur Rabesa (another legendary fighter) in East Falmouth. It was a daily haul back and forth to the dojo, late in the day after work.

On the way back this particular evening I found the energy to stop into Barnstable High School to visit a training session with local pro boxing champion Kippy Diggs. Kippy and I were old Barnstable High School hockey teammates and I somehow wound up goofing around and doing some very light sparring with the champ. It was then I learned that Okinawan karate and boxing do not necessarily mix. Mr. Maddox was Kippy’s trainer and he knew of my teacher in Falmouth… and explained that my style was an entirely different set of movements that made it impossible for the two styles to ever really work fairly together in the ring. In fact, cross training could be counter productive.

I instantly liked Mr. Maddox. He was soft spoken, as well as a careful listener. From our short discussion, I learned he possessed all the elements and integrity of an amazing teacher… and I could tell he loved his students… he was a knowledgeable, magnetic force when it came to all things in the boxing ring. It was an honor to meet him… and one I will never forget.

Five years ago I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Maddox again. It was November of 2015, at a local pro fight night event at Barnstable High School. Local fighters, including heavyweight champ Jesse “Bad News” Barboza of Hyannis and Paul Gonsalves of Harwich both had fights – it was very exciting! Jonathan Thompson of JT’s Chronicles and I were on hand to interview Mr. George Maddox, local pro boxing legend, trainer, and dedicated bastion of the community, especially when it came to providing positive mentoring for our youth. Jesse “Bad News” Barboza was also on hand.

The following video was a team effort by JT’s Chronicles and Hyannis News. I recently dug through the old archives, updated and re-packaged the video in honor of Mr. George Maddox. The following footage is from a fun and splendiferous evening I’ll never ever forget!

Dear Lord, please bless and comfort Mr. Maddox and all his loved ones during this time…

[HN VIDEO – PRESS PLAY]

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