Baltimore Pro Boxing To Honor The Late Steve McNair

Steve McNair never wrapped his hands, hit a heavy bag, or starved himself to make weight but in many ways, he was just like a model pugilist.

A hard working community oriented athlete who refused to let injuries take him off his game, McNair was known for much more than winning the 2003 NFL co-MVP.

A fan favorite during his short tenure in Baltimore, McNair led the Ravens to a franchise best 13-3 in 2006. Still a visible figure in the community with The Steve McNair Foundation and Gridiron 9 Restaurant, McNair was far from forgotten when he retired after the 2007 season.

On July 4, McNair’s life was tragically cut short in Nashville, Tennessee. The sad news of McNair’s passing was not only disheartening for his family and former teammates but also to promoter Jake Smith of Baltimore Pro Boxing. A diehard Ravens fan, Smith proudly wore his #9 McNair jersey on any given Sunday.

Smith will pay respects to McNair with an honorary ten count as well as a moment of silence prior to the main event of his card July 25 at the Du Burns Arena. While he was most remembered for his on the field efforts, Smith also admired McNair as a person.

“To me, it is only appropriate to honor a warrior like McNair,” said Smith. “McNair was one of my favorite players and arguably the best QB in Ravens history. I feel it is my duty to honor a fallen hero in the same city where he gave it his all day each and every time he stepped onto the field.”

The Du Burns Arena is located at 1301 S. Elwood Ave in Baltimore. Doors open at 6:30 and the opening bell is at 8 p.m. Tickets can be ordered by calling 410-375-9175.