Kronk Comes Home: Detroit’s Boxing Legacy Revived at Brewster-Wheeler

June 9, 2025

Kronk Gym, the legendary boxing training facility that produced over 40 world champions under Emanuel Steward's leadership, is set to reopen this summer within the historic Brewster-Wheeler Recreation Center in Detroit. The new 3,500-square-foot facility will be led by Steward's family members and a dedicated team focused on training both amateur and professional athletes while providing youth mentorship and community resources. After experiencing multiple relocations since its original basement location closed in 2006, this homecoming represents a meaningful return to Detroit boxing's roots, as Steward himself began his career at Brewster before founding Kronk.

Who is affected

Detroit's youth seeking mentorship and athletic training
Amateur and professional boxers
The surrounding Detroit community
The Black community in Detroit, particularly from the Black Bottom neighborhood
Residents of the approximately 200 apartments MHT Housing plans to build

What action is being taken

Kronk Gym is being reopened in a 3,500-square-foot space within the Brewster-Wheeler Recreation Center
MHT Housing Inc. is handling construction and interior build-out of the gym space
MHT Housing offered a low-cost lease to help Kronk reestablish in Detroit
Steward's family and gym leadership are developing programs for athlete training, youth mentorship, and community partnerships

Why it matters

Kronk Gym produced over 40 world champions including Tommy Hearns, Lennox Lewis, and Evander Holyfield
The gym provides discipline, structure, and mentorship for youth in a city facing violence and limited recreational opportunities
The Brewster-Wheeler location has historical significance as the training ground for boxing legends like Joe Louis and Sugar Ray Robinson
Emanuel Steward began his boxing journey at Brewster before founding Kronk, creating a full-circle return
The project demonstrates community-focused development in contrast to redevelopment that often excludes long-standing residents

What's next

The gym will open this summer, though no specific opening date has been announced
MHT Housing is working to find other tenants for the Brewster-Wheeler space that "complement the community"
MHT plans to build approximately 200 apartments on the surrounding land

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle