Imagine stepping into a venue where the energy is palpable, the crowd is electric, and every punch feels like a thunderclap. That’s The Paramount in Huntington, where the longest-running event series, Rockin’ Fights, continues to pack a punch—literally. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a compact, intimate space truly rival the grandeur of larger arenas like Barclays Center? Fighters like Chris Algieri say yes, claiming The Paramount’s tight quarters and roaring crowd make it feel even more intense. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the fights; it’s about the community. Fighters like David Malul, aka King David, who famously KO’d his towering opponent Lucien Hannah in just 2 minutes and 38 seconds, prove that size doesn’t always determine the victor. “It felt cinematic,” Malul recalls, “like it wasn’t even real.” But once he steps into the ring, he’s ready for anyone—a sentiment shared by many who’ve graced The Paramount’s stage.
Since opening in 2011, The Paramount has been a hub for music and comedy, but it’s the Rockin’ Fights series that’s become its heartbeat. Promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing has masterminded 53 boxing cards (and counting), transforming the venue into a boxing mecca. “The fighters feel like they’re in a pressure cooker,” DeGuardia explains, “and it fills the room with excitement.” The layout itself is a marvel: a boxing ring dominates the dance floor, surrounded by reserved seating, VIP spots on stage, and balconies offering crystal-clear views. “Fight nights are electric,” says Adam Ellis of Live Nation, “you can feel the buzz in the room.”
But what makes Rockin’ Fights truly special? It’s the local heroes. Fighters like Algieri, a Huntington native who went from kickboxing to becoming the WBO junior welterweight world champion in 2014, and Joe Smith Jr., the WBO light heavyweight champ from 2021-22, have roots here. Algieri’s nationally televised bout against Bayan Jargal in 2011 was a turning point. “The crowd was amazing,” he recalls, “it’s a really intimate venue.” And intimacy is key—fighters feel the audience’s energy, with friends, family, and fans cheering every move. “You feel completely entrapped by the audience,” Algieri adds, “they’re so loud and right on top of you.”
A typical Rockin’ Fights night runs from 7:30 to 11 p.m., featuring four to seven bouts of four to ten rounds. Matches can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 40 minutes, ending in knockouts, decisions, or draws. “Fans get to see competitive fights with real action,” DeGuardia says, “fighters with real connections to their communities.” Flags wave, T-shirts are worn in support—it’s a live experience like no other.
Now, new local talent is stepping into the spotlight. Ralph Clemente, a 25-year-old super middleweight with a 2-0 record, promises, “If I land a straight right-hand punch, you’re going down.” Peter Latorre, a 28-year-old welterweight and Marine Corps veteran with a 5-0 knockout record, describes himself as a “throwback fighter” with adaptability and power. “I can knock people out but also use distance and speed,” he says.
Rockin’ Fights 53 is set for February 28 at The Paramount, with tickets ranging from $65.25 to $227.25. But here’s the question: Can smaller venues like The Paramount truly rival the big leagues? And does the intimacy of the space make the fights more thrilling? Let us know what you think in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
