Community

The Italian Job: Giorgio Visioli champions culture and community ahead of US debut

October 8 2025

The Aldershot puncher spent time learning about Philadelphia’s Italian-American history, while connecting with local boxers and community leaders.

South Philadelphia is a place where boxing, family and tradition runs deep – and ahead of his highly anticipated US debut, British-Italian rising lightweight star Giorgio Visioli immersed himself in the neighbourhood’s rich Italian-American culture, forging powerful new connections that bridge generations, continents and communities.

Accompanied by his co-manager, advisor and former IBF World Flyweight Champion Sunny Edwards, Visioli began the day at one of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks – the Rocky Steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Filming a new episode of Small Talk Abroad alongside Charlie Parsons, the pair recreated the legendary run made famous by Sylvester Stallone’s Italian-American hero.

“It’s something every fighter dreams of doing,” said Visioli.

“Those steps represent more than just a movie moment – they represent determination, resilience and pride,” he added.

“To run them ahead of my first fight, in a city so steeped in boxing history, made it all the more special.”

However, beyond the bright lights and movie nostalgia, this was a day about roots, identity and giving back.

Across town, Visioli then visited Filitalia International on East Passyunk Avenue, where he was hosted by Sean Frusco, President of the organisation’s South Philadelphia Chapter.

The visit offered a chance to explore the deep history of Italian immigration to the United States and the profound influence Italian-Americans have had on the city’s social, cultural and sporting fabric.

Inside the History of Italian Immigration Museum, Frusco guided Visioli through exhibitions detailing the journeys of over two million Italians who arrived via Ellis Island, seeking new beginnings in the early 20th century.

The museum showcases artefacts, documents and family stories that chart the community’s evolution from arrival to establishment – including a section dedicated to boxing, one of South Philly’s proudest exports.

Among the standout exhibits were robes, gloves and memorabilia donated by legendary Philadelphia cutman-turned-actor Joey Eye, who worked in corners for decades before finding fame in the Rocky and Creed films.

Visioli also visited the nearby Joey Giardello statue, honouring the former World Middleweight Champion who famously defeated Sugar Ray Robinson in 1963 – a symbol of Italian-American achievement through hard work and perseverance.

Speaking about the visit, Sean Frusco described the pride that the local community felt in hosting Visioli and welcoming him into their cultural family.

“It was a real honour to welcome Giorgio to the museum and share our history with him,” beamed Frusco.

“He carries the same values of pride, resilience and family that built this community – and we’ll be supporting him every step of the way as he continues his journey. South Philly will always be behind him!”