The first woman inducted into the Hall of Fame, Eaton was born in Vancouver, British Columbia. She was often called "The Redhead" and was the promoter at the legendary Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles from 1942 to 1980.
She possessed a reputation for being tough but honest. Originally part of a dynamic promotional team with husband Cal Eaton, Aileen took over with flair and showmanship when Cal passed on in 1966. One of boxing's most consistent promoters, Eaton staged weekly boxing shows at the Olympic and during her career promoted more than 2500 fight cards, 100 title bouts and 10,000 matches.
Among the fighters Eaton promoted include Ray Robinson, Floyd Patterson, Danny Lopez, Carmen Basilio, George Foreman, Joe Frazier and Carlos Palomino.
Eaton was named to the California State Athletic Commission in 1982. She died at age 78 on November 7, 1987 in Los Angeles.
Born: Feb. 5, 1909
Died: Nov. 7, 1987
Induction: 2002
Aileen Eaton
