Freedom Park Boxing Arena Renamed in Honor of Macon Boxing Legends

The bleachers at Freedom Park were filled with excitement on Friday, December 13, as the Macon-Bibb community gathered to honor four men who have made a lasting impact on boxing locally and internationally. The boxing arena was officially renamed the Ray-Montgomery Boxing Arena, in recognition of Bishop Frank Ray and brothers Michael, Maliek, and Mikhail Montgomery.

“We are so proud of the work and ethic these boys have put into boxing,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “Throughout their careers, they have represented Macon very well. There are a lot of kids out there now who will follow in their footsteps, and this dedication will help their legacy continue for many generations.”

Originally named after Bishop Frank Ray, a local boxing legend who managed the Macon Boxing Club and trained youth for many years, the arena now honors Ray and the Montgomery brothers, who began their boxing careers at the Bay Street Middle Georgia Boxing Gym, founded by Ray.

“To see and to know that you all still recognized him, I thought y’all had forgotten him,” said Ray’s daughter, Brenda Ray Smith, overcome with emotion. “I was just so overwhelmed.”

The Montgomery brothers, all boxing champions, have strong ties to the community. Maliek is Macon’s first Golden Gloves winner, Michael is a six-time Georgia Games champion, and Mikhail remains undefeated.

“I’m thankful for my brothers, the refs, everybody who was behind us over the years,” Michael said. “It’s definitely an honor.”

Maliek shared his gratitude, acknowledging the support of his parents and his brothers: “I want to thank my parents, Michael Montgomery, Sr. and Teresa, for always being that force behind us and keeping us on the right track and staying focused on our craft.”

“The renaming of this is big, not only for us, but for the community,” said Mikhail. “We want to thank you all for recognizing our lifetime of hard work and dedication to the sport. Hopefully, we can change a lot of kids’ lives.”

The Montgomery brothers have trained at the Freedom Park Boxing Gym since its opening in 2014. The resolution to rename the arena was brought forward by former District 3 Commissioner Al Tillman and sponsored by District 8 Commissioner Virgil Watkins.