Ryan O'Neal, Ali McGraw, boxing and 'Love Letters'
by Brian Woodman Jr. on 02/13/16
Ryan O'Neal and Ali McGraw, who achieved film stardom in the iconic film 'Love Story' will be in Hartford performing the acclaimed play 'Love Letters' in Hartford from Feb. 9 through Feb. 14 (the last performance is appropriately on Valentine's Day).
Apart from being one of the most famous cinematic leading men of the 70s', O'Neal also had an interest in boxing. Not only was he an amateur fighter but he also managed former pro weltereight Hedgeman Lewis, according to boxing trainer John "Iceman" Scully.
Scully, who also fought professionally as a light heavyweight, hosted an afternoon appearance by the stars on Feb. 10 at Bright Future Boxing -- located at 180 Pleasant Street in Hartford and formerly known as the San Juan Center Gym. Scully and O'Neal did a little light sparring for three rounds while Hartford's own Marlon Starling, a former welterweight champion and a boxing legend, refereed (Scully won the exhibition match by a split decision).
McGraw cornered O'Neal, admitting to one of our correspondents that she didn't particularly like seeing her co-star get hit.
Scully said Bright Futures, which has operated as a non-profit organization since 1992, is open to anyone.
"I train men, women and children," he said. "Professionals, amateurs and anyone who just wants to get into shape."
