In a remarkable achievement, Morehouse College has etched its name into the annals of collegiate boxing history. The institution became the first historically Black college and university (HBCU) to participate in the U.S. Intercollegiate Boxing Association National Tournament. Two of its standout athletes, Kaleb Hudson and Elijah McLean, secured national championship titles, bringing glory to their institution. This accomplishment highlights not only the dedication of the students but also the support from within the Morehouse community.
On April 3, 2025, Morehouse College's boxing club made headlines by achieving unprecedented success at the national level. Among the seven participants, two young men—Kaleb Hudson and Elijah McLean—rose above their competitors to clinch national championships. McLean triumphed over Aaron O'Connor from Glenville State University in the 168-pound Men’s Open category, while Hudson bested Evan Lee from the University of Washington in the 140-pound Beginner B bracket. Their victories were celebrated widely across social media platforms, drawing attention to the achievements of HBCUs in athletics.
Charles Prescott, Morehouse's Chief of Police, played an instrumental role in supporting the boxing club financially. He contributed personally to cover travel and accommodation costs for the team, ensuring they could compete effectively. In a post on Instagram, Prescott expressed pride in the club's accomplishments, noting that this was the first time Morehouse had achieved such recognition in boxing. Additionally, Alofamonie "Moni" Galoia, the publicity chair of the boxing club and a student at Clark Atlanta University, competed fiercely in the women’s division, further showcasing the talent associated with the program.
Jacobey Bell, president and founder of the Morehouse Boxing Club, acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the group. Despite these hurdles, the proximity of the tournament location in Macon provided a fortunate opportunity for the team to participate without excessive expenses. Such moments underscore the resilience and determination of the athletes and their supporters.
The historic success of Morehouse College in the boxing arena signifies a new chapter for HBCUs in collegiate sports. By overcoming obstacles and excelling on a national stage, the institution demonstrates the potential and strength inherent in its student body. As the world applauds their achievements, Morehouse continues to inspire future generations through perseverance and excellence.