Plans to revive the iconic Kronk boxing gym have gained momentum, with a new location announced during a press event on June 4. The facility, which will be housed at the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center in the Brewster-Douglass neighborhood, aims to open its doors by late August or early September. Originally founded by the legendary boxing trainer Emanuel Steward, the Kronk Gym has been synonymous with producing some of the sport's greatest figures. However, the original gym closed in 2006 due to theft and later succumbed to a fire in 2017. Now, under new ownership led by CEO Paul Bhatti, the gym is set to return as both a tribute to its storied past and an investment in Detroit's future.
The choice of the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center holds deep significance for Detroit’s boxing heritage. This historic venue was once frequented by boxing icon Joe Louis, adding another layer of legacy to the project. Since the early 2000s, the center had lain dormant until Mayor Mike Duggan intervened to prevent its demolition shortly after taking office in 2014. At Wednesday's announcement, Duggan emphasized the city’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks while fostering growth: “We are rebuilding a city that honors its past while shaping its future.” He cited other recent successes like the Detroit Pistons’ return and the reopening of Michigan Central Station as part of this vision.
Beyond honoring the Kronk name, the new gym represents a broader community initiative. According to CEO Paul Bhatti, it will serve as more than just a training space; it will inspire young people, create employment opportunities, and reinforce local pride. Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison echoed these sentiments, noting how engaging youth through activities such as boxing can contribute to safer neighborhoods. “When young minds are occupied positively, communities thrive,” he remarked.
This revival marks not only a continuation of the Kronk legacy but also an evolution. Established in 1921, the original gym began producing champions under Emanuel Steward's guidance in the 1970s. Even after his passing in 2012, the Steward family remains integral to the endeavor, with Emanuel’s daughter Sylvia serving as a business consultant and his wife Marie listed as founder emeritus on the company website.
With its reopening imminent, the new Kronk gym promises to reestablish Detroit as a hub for boxing excellence while offering transformative benefits to the surrounding area. By combining history with innovation, it embodies the spirit of renewal that defines modern-day Detroit. As leaders and residents alike rally behind this effort, the gym stands poised to leave a lasting impact on generations to come.