BROCKTON, Mass. (AP) — Some of the biggest names in boxing history are expected in Brockton this weekend for the official unveiling of a giant statue of boxing champion Rocky Marciano.

Organizer say boxing greats Thomas Hearns, Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield, Mickey Ward and John Ruiz are among those committed to attend the Sunday ceremony. Renowned promoter Don King and Jose Sulaiman (sah-LEY’-mahn) , head of the World Boxing Council, are also expected to show up.

The 24-foot tall statute was erected Thursday, but a public dedication ceremony is scheduled for Sunday in Marciano’s hometown. The statue is outside the city’s football stadium that also bears Marciano’s name.

Marciano, who died in a 1969 plane crash in Iowa, is the only heavyweight to retire undefeated at 49-0. He would have been 89 on Sept. 1.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.