Spoiler Alert: Sean Kanan and Antonio Sabato Jr. Reunite as a Celebrity Boxing Match Sparks Soap Opera Memories and Unfinished Business!
The Bold and the Beautiful star Sean Kanan, known for his powerful portrayal of Deacon, is throwing his full support behind his longtime friend and fellow soap legend, General Hospital alum Antonio Sabato Jr. The two actors, who shared the screen on GH back in the 1990s, are reuniting for a truly unexpected event: a high-stakes celebrity boxing match. Sabato, who originated the role of John “Jagger” Cates and has been missed by fans since his final appearance in 2008, is stepping back into the spotlight for a fight that is deeply personal and emotionally charged.
In a recent Instagram post that sent fans into a frenzy, Kanan shared a heartwarming message and photos, revealing the depth of his friendship with Sabato. “So great to catch up with kickboxing teacher Chris Steele @steele_boxer and @antoniosabatojr,” Kanan wrote. “Antonio and I began training with Chris almost 35 years ago. Antonio is in training for his upcoming fight at the end of September. I’m in his corner.” The post featured a photo of the two actors beaming with raised fists, a powerful visual that immediately stirred memories of their shared history and ignited fan excitement. Followers were ecstatic to see the two favorites together again, with comments like “Antonio is the BEST!!” and “2 of my faves in this photo! ❤️” flooding the feed. The fans’ support for Sabato’s new endeavor was overwhelming, with one follower proudly declaring, “Team Sabato!”
The celebrity boxing match is scheduled for September 27, 2025, against opponent Corey Wims, and will take place at the iconic 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This location holds immense symbolic significance for Sabato, adding another layer of intrigue and emotional weight to the event.
In a short video interview with sports reporter David Malandra Jr., Sabato revealed the personal and professional inspiration behind his decision to fight. When asked about being the “Rocky” of the match, Sabato embraced the comparison wholeheartedly. “That’s a perfect match for me playing Rocky because I am the Italian stallion,” he stated with pride. He explained that although he was born and raised in Italy, America has given him so much, and it’s a “dream come true to be fighting in the in the greatest country in the world.”
The fight is a deeply personal dedication to his late father, Antonio Sabato Sr., who passed away in 2021. Sabato also credited the legendary Sylvester Stallone and his iconic Rocky film franchise for sparking his initial interest in boxing. When asked if Stallone was aware of the fight, Sabato revealed that he had spoken to the iconic actor and expressed his hope that “Sly” would be able to attend.
Sabato’s choice of venue is no coincidence. “It out means everything to me to fight in Philly,” he stated, highlighting the city’s connection to the first Rocky film. He continued, expressing his deep affection for the city, saying, “Philly is a town that I adore. I love the Italian community and everybody in between is supporting this fight.” This sentiment, coupled with the presence of his longtime friend and fellow soap star, Kanan, promises a night of high-octane action, emotional tributes, and a powerful reunion that fans of both General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful won’t want to miss.
