Boxing Returns to Little Italy’s Piazza for a Night That Honors Legacy
Amateur boxing in the heart of Little Italy sounds like something straight out of a movie, but Punches in the Piazza is very real and very much worth experiencing.
This unique showcase transforms the Piazza della Famiglia into a proper boxing venue, complete with 12 three-round bouts featuring some of Southern California’s top amateur talent.
The Story Behind the Event
This isn’t just another boxing card—it’s a tribute to Bobby DePhilippis, a Hall of Fame boxing promoter and president of Filippi’s Pizza Grotto who passed away in 2022. Bobby D grew up in Little Italy and spent his life promoting both great fights and great causes.
His daughter Michelle created the Bobby D. Foundation to continue his legacy, and this event perfectly captures his love of boxing and commitment to community support.
The timing is particularly meaningful this year, as the event coincides with the 75th anniversary of Filippi’s Pizza Grotto in San Diego. There’s something poetic about celebrating both milestones in the same piazza where it all began.
What We’re Getting
Twelve sanctioned USA Boxing bouts in one of the most unique venues you’ll find anywhere. The setting alone makes this special—watching boxing matches in an Italian piazza creates an atmosphere you won’t find at any other venue in the city.
The combination of quality amateur boxing and the intimate, historic setting of the Piazza della Famiglia gives this event a character that’s entirely its own.
VIP seats and ringside tables are available for those who want the full experience, though honestly, there probably isn’t a bad seat in a venue this unique.
The Impact
Previous events have raised serious money for local causes. The inaugural Punches in the Piazza generated $40,000 for Washington Elementary School, plus additional funds for the Little Italy Association and Convivio. Last year’s event raised another $25,000 for the school and its students.
Washington Elementary serves a high percentage of students from homeless families, making this support genuinely impactful. The Little Italy Association and Convivio both work to preserve and celebrate the neighborhood’s Italian cultural heritage.
See You There!
Some events capture the spirit of their neighborhood perfectly. Punches in the Piazza definitely feels like one of those nights.
📆 Friday, September 12, 6 PM (Doors at 5:30 PM)
🎟️ Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased here | VIP reservations: 619-420-8866
ℹ️ More info here
See you there, San Diego!
