Cranston native Vinny Paz inducted into Boxing Hall of Fame

CANASTOTA, N.Y. — Vinny Paz, the Cranston native known for his fearless fighting style and one of the most legendary comebacks in sports, was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame this weekend.

Paz began his professional career in 1983 and captured his first world title in 1987. But his story became the stuff of legend after a devastating car crash in Warwick in 1991 left him with a broken neck. Told he might never walk again, he defied all odds—and his doctors—training with a halo brace and returning to the ring just 13 months later.

He went on to win 5 world titles, defeat boxing icons like Roberto Duran (twice) before retiring in 2004 with a record of 50 wins, 30 of them by knockout.

Now, over 40 years after his debut, the “Pazmanian Devil” has earned boxing’s highest honor, joining the Hall of Fame alongside legends like Manny Pacquiao.

Vinny Paz didn’t just fight for titles—he fought for Rhode Island pride.

Paz rolled into Canastota in a custom UFC bus to mark the moment, repping his home state in true showman style.