John Scully
Professional Boxer and Renowned Boxing Trainer · Boxing - Professional
Team Iceman / Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA)
Era
Modern Era - circa 2010s to present
Item Type
Signed Boxing Glove
Condition
Excellent. The signature is bold with no fading; the glove shows minor handling marks but remains crisp white with clean blue graphics
Rarity
Moderately rare specialized item. While Scully is an accessible signer, the custom-printed graphic glove is a unique niche item
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, authentic piece of boxing memorabilia from a respected figure. The custom graphics and heartfelt inscriptions make this a standout item for local history or boxing enthusiasts.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic based on the unique personalized item and the fluidity of the signature. Confidence level: 95%
Signature Style
Casual cursive signature with distinct 'Iceman' moniker and community-focused inscriptions
Signature Characteristics
Fast-moving strokes with consistent pressure. The 'J' is large and rounded; the 'S' in Scully is sharp. Inscriptions exhibit block-letter printing that matches Scully's known handwriting
Ink & Medium
Blue broad-tip permanent marker (Sharpie-style) on white synthetic/leather boxing glove surface
Item Description
Rival Boxing Gear glove, white and light blue, featuring a printed graphic of John Scully with the text 'THE ICE NEVER MELTS' and inscriptions 'TEAM COBA' and '#1 Boxing Family'
Estimated Value
$100.00 - $250.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches verified private signing examples and donated items for COBA fundraisers. Flow and slant are consistent with his post-retirement trainer era
Authentication Tips
Look for the distinctive sharp loop in the 'J' of John and the flowing, slightly slanted 'Scully' that tapers off. The 'Iceman' nickname is almost always enclosed in quotation marks
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or Beckett Authentication Services are ideal for boxing memorabilia
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The item is highly specific to the signer's personal brand and charity affiliations
Provenance Notes
The inscription 'TEAM COBA' suggests this was likely signed at or for a Charter Oak Boxing Academy event in Hartford, CT
Historical Context
John Scully is a significant figure in Connecticut boxing history, a former world title challenger, and a leading voice in boxing training and philanthropy today
Market Trends
Scully's value is stable as a respected trainer and historian within the boxing community; items with specific career graphics tend to hold higher value than generic gloves
Investment Potential
Stable. While not a high-growth asset like a Muhammad Ali autograph, it is a solid piece for specialized boxing collectors and those following his training career
Similar Autographs
Micky Ward, Chad Dawson (whom Scully trained), and other notable New England boxers like Vinny Pazienza
Display & Preservation
Store in a UV-protected acrylic glove case. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the white material from yellowing or the blue ink from fading
Interesting Facts
Scully is known for his extensive efforts to help retired boxers in need and his deep involvement with amateur boxing programs in the New England area