Detroit has produced some of the world’s greatest boxers, largely thanks to Kronk Gym.  

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. Gold-medalist Steve McCrory and world boxing champion Lenox Lewis also trained there.

The original gym closed in 2006 and was long vacant by 2017 when the building was destroyed by fire. Steward later rented a space in Westland to house the gym.

Now, the historic gym is making its return to Detroit, at the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center.

We spoke to Kronk Chief Operating Officer John Lepak and former professional boxer Tarick Salmaci ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics. about about the move and the gym’s legacy in the sport.

Kronk Boxing Gym will reopen in the Brewster recreation center by the end of the summer. 

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

–Associated Press writer Corey Williams contributed to this report.

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