Real estate developer and Showboat Resort owner Bart Blatstein took his commitment to Atlantic City boxing to a new level last weekend, stepping into the ring to secure a personal victory at the Pat Johnson New Jersey Masters Boxing Championship. With the win, Blatstein officially becomes a two-time Masters champion, adding to his previous tournament victory in 2024.
The high-stakes event, held from August 22–23, 2026, took place at The Showboat Resort’s specialized boutique boxing venue. Sanctioned by USA Boxing and organized by Manny Fernandez, the tournament stands as the largest masters boxing event on the East Coast. This year’s competition brought together more than 100 amateur boxers aged 35 and older from across the region.
Blatstein, the 71-year-old CEO of Tower Investments, has been a longtime, vocal advocate for restoring the historic boxing culture to the Atlantic City Boardwalk. On Saturday, August 22, during Day 1 of the tournament, Blatstein backed up his advocacy with action. Fighting as a representative of the world-famous Gleason’s Jersey Shore Gym roster, Blatstein defeated opponent Steve Schiavoni in a highly anticipated bout that served as an opening highlight of the championships.
“We are thrilled not only to host the largest Masters tournament on the East Coast but to actively participate in the revival of Atlantic City boxing,” said Blatstein. “Stepping into the ring alongside incredible master athletes was an honor. Winning my second title is a proud personal achievement, but hosting this sanctioned event at Showboat underscores our larger vision to give back to the community and give kids in need in New Jersey a fighting chance.”
The tournament served a vital charitable purpose by raising critical funds for the New Jersey Give a Kid a Dream (NJGAKAD) “Champions of Life” program. Operating as a registered 501(c)(3) organization, NJGAKAD, founded by Coach Jackie Atkins, uses the rigorous discipline of amateur, Olympic-style boxing as a foundation to empower at-risk youth. Beyond gym training, the nonprofit provides a holistic support system that includes mentoring, academic development, health education, and social etiquette. Their core curriculum focuses on four pillars—Elevate, Educate, Empower, and Embrace—teaching young people to build the confidence needed to become champions both in the ring and in life.
With over 100 elite master boxers competing, a successful victory for its host, and vital support generated for local youth programming, the Pat Johnson New Jersey Masters Boxing Championship solidifies Showboat Resort’s reputation as a powerhouse venue for regional and national athletic events. To learn more about the tournament’s charity beneficiary or to support their mission, visit njgakad.com.
