JOHN SUDAC, JR
MANAGER/ TRAINER
1950's – 1980's

John Sudac, Jr. was a former Golden Gloves Champion and made even greater contributions to boxing as the owner of Singer's Gym and trainer of scores of young boxers. Sudac, fought 39 amateur fights in the 1940's and took his Golden Gloves title in 1942 during a boxing career that spanned decades.

A Tonawanda resident who retired in 1987 from a career as a steamfitter, working out of Steamfitters Local 395, Johnny Sudac was a multitalented man who had an exceptional love for the sport of boxing. He once turned down an opportunity to dramatically increase his financial status by refusing an offer to relocate and apply his wielding skills on the Alaskan Pipeline Project. He confided to his family members that he could not leave boxing or his "kids". Sudac took over the most renowned boxing gym in the region in 1966. Founded by promoter Jack Singer in the early 1920's, Singer's Gym has been a haven for American and Canadian boxers for much of this century. Sudac took it over from John McCarthy when the gym was moved from its original location downtown to a 45-step walk-up at 629 Main Street. In 1982, when transit mall construction cut automobile access to the gym, Sudac moved the boxing ring and weight bags to yet another location at 151 E. Eagle Street.

Sudac worked closely with the Police Athletic League and many other local groups, and his efforts led to lasting friendships with boxers, and sportscasters, and promoters. He took pride in maintaining a code of gentlemanly conduct in his gym.

In 1982, he recalled for a reporter a list of "some good fighters" who trained in his gym, including Hank Pelow, Jimmy Ralston, Al Quinney, and Ralph Racine. He also recalled "a lot of wise guys who got straightened out here — they found out they had to be a gentlemen." John Sudac, Jr. died Saturday December 12, 1987. His efforts in promoting the sport and providing training and career opportunities for young men earned him a special commendation from the Erie County Legislature in 1982. Also James D. Griffin, Mayor of the City of Buffalo, officially proclaimed Saturday, February 20, 1988 as John Sudac, Jr. Day in the City of Buffalo in memory of him and his positive impact on the sport of boxing in our city. No matter how strong and powerful John portrayed himself in the boxing world, his family enjoyed the warm loving side of him who pampered and honored his parents, adored his sisters, .and remained devoted to his fourteen nieces and nephews.

Tonight we are very proud to honor John Sudac, Jr. for his achievements and contributions to the sport of boxing by inducting him into Ring # 44's Boxing Hall of Fame.