The Kronk Gym, a significant institution in Detroit boxing history, is slated to reopen this summer at the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center, where legendary boxer Joe Louis once trained. Mayor Mike Duggan highlighted the successful preservation of the building, which faced demolition due to its dilapidated state. Originally founded in 1971 by Emanuel Steward, Kronk produced numerous champions, including Thomas "Hitman" Hearns. The original gym closed in 2006 and faced further setbacks, but community efforts aim to breathe new life into this historic site, honoring its past while fostering future boxing talent.
The room that housed the gym where Louis trained remains in the building's basement. But the center had become so dilapidated that it faced a wrecking ball about a decade ago, Mayor Mike Duggan said.
It was days away from being demolished... Can you imagine a more perfect use for this building than the Kronk gym? This is the city we're building, a city where we honor our history and we keep it alive.
The original Kronk was established in 1971 by trainer Emanuel Steward in a gym on Detroit's southwest side. Boxer Hilmer Kenty was Kronk's first professional champion, winning the WBA title.
But Kronk rose to national prominence behind the punishing fists of Thomas 'Hitman' Hearns... on the way to five titles and a career 61-5-1 record as a pro.
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