Kronk Gym, which produced several boxing world champions through the 1980s and 90s is making its return to Detroit with a brand-new training facility located at the Brewster-Wheeler Recreation Center.
Kronk ownership made the announcement today along with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison and Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield.
Recommended Videos
The recreation center first opened in 1929 as a community hub for those who lived in Detroit, especially the Brewster and Brush Park neighborhoods.
Boxing legend Joe Louis trained at the Brewster-Wheeler Recreation Center located on Wilkins St when he became Heavyweight Champion of the World in 1937.
The facility was closed in 2006 as a result of lack of funding and decrease in usage.
City officials highlighted the importance of preserving and revitalizing the Brewster-Wheeler Recreation Center due to the rich history and cultural impact it represents.
“The gym where Joe Louis trained when he became champion is still down there preserved because that’s what we’re supposed to do in Detroit,” said Duggan.
“This is the city we’re building,” said Duggan. “A city where we honor our history and keep it alive.”
“This was never just a building, this was a cornerstone of culture, a sanctuary of strength and a symbol of unity in this community,” said Sheffield.
The leadership team includes Kronk CEO Paul Bhatti, Kronk COO John Lepak, VP of International Business Amer Abdallah, Marie Steward, Sylvia Steward-Williams and Kronk’s first world champion Hilmer Kenty.
In addition to training future champions, Kronk will be active in several community programs, youth mentorship initiatives, and training opportunities for the youth of Metro-Detroit.
The original Kronk gym located on McGraw Avenue was started by iconic boxing trainer, Emanuel Steward. Kronk rose to fame when prospects like Hilmer Kenty, Thomas Hearns and Mickey Goodwin trained there. In 1980, Kenty became Kronk’s first world champion, Hearns following him months after.
During Steward’s time as a trainer in the 1980s and 90s, Kronk earned the reputation as the “mecca of boxing” due to its history of producing numerous world champions.
For more details on opening events, fighter announcements and special programming go to Kronk’s website.
--> Legendary Kronk Gym set to return to Detroit under new ownership