KRONK GYM SET TO RETURN TO DETROIT, REVIVING A LEGENDARY LEGACY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit, MI – March 13, 2025 – Often referred to as Detroit’s 5th Franchise, the legendary KRONK Gym is making its triumphant return to the city of Detroit. Under new ownership, with the continued involvement of Mrs. Marie Steward and Sylvia Steward-Williams along with several of KRONK’s original World Champions, KRONK is committed to reigniting the spirit of its founder, Emanuel Steward.

For decades, KRONK was more than just a gym, it was a symbol of Detroit’s fighting spirit and a proving ground for champions. Under Emanuel Steward’s visionary leadership, it became a global brand that produced numerous Olympic Medalists and multiple World Champions. The revival of KRONK is not just about restoring its name, but about bringing back the magic that made it the breeding ground for some of the greatest fighters in boxing history.

The new ownership group is committed to ensuring that KRONK remains true to its roots by involving many of KRONK’s former World Champions and fighters that trained under Steward. This revival will all be focused on a new Gym in the heart of the city that will involve developing elite level talent at both the amateur and professional levels of the sport, fostering a deep connection with the Detroit community just as Emanuel Steward always intended.

The leadership team, featuring Detroit natives, Boxing enthusiasts, and longtime KRONK affiliates, includes Paul Bhatti, John Lepak, Amer Abdallah, Mikey Shumaker, Marie Steward, Sylvia Steward-Williams, and KRONK’s first World Champion Hilmer Kenty. With a bold vision for fighter development, boxing advisory services, licensing, creative partnerships with Detroit based businesses, community engagement, and global expansion. KRONK is poised to play a pivotal role in Detroit’s amazing resurgence.

KRONK is planning on bringing a brand-new training facility to the city of Detroit, with details on the facility to be announced soon. This new space will serve as a hub for young fighters, aspiring champions, and World Class professionals, all with a focus on community involvement and carrying forward the KRONK tradition of excellence. “Like thousands of other kids, Emanuel Steward was like a father figure to me and to now be in a position to help carry on his legacy in and out of the ring is a tremendous honor and responsibility,” said John Lepak, Managing Partner, and member of the Original KRONK Gym.

“Emanuel Steward and KRONK played such an important role, not just in my life, but in the lives of so many Detroiters. I am delighted to be officially back home as part of the KRONK Team,” said Hilmer Kenty, KRONK’s first ever World Champion and recently appointed KRONK Ambassador.

KRONK Founder, Emanuel Steward (left) with Hilmer Kenty (right).        Courtesy of KRONK

In addition to training future champions, KRONK will be very active in several community programs, youth mentorship initiatives, and training opportunities for the youth of Metro- Detroit. “My father dedicated his life to Detroit, to the KRONK Gym, and to shaping the World of Boxing, touching the lives of so many. I am very impressed by the new team's vision and goals for expanding the legacy my father built. He would be incredibly proud of their efforts. We are committed to giving back to Detroit while also ensuring KRONK's influence grows on a global scale,” said Sylvia Steward-Williams, Emanuel Steward’s daughter.

Emanuel Steward with his daughter, Sylvia Steward-Williams.               Courtesy of KRONK

“To be a part of this team represents a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s an honor to have assumed this role, and we are all focused on executing our vision to bring KRONK back into the mainstream. This isn’t just about restoring a legendary boxing gym, it’s about providing opportunities to the youth, closely engaging with community and business leaders, and giving the people of Detroit another sports franchise to be proud of,” said Paul Bhatti, CEO of KRONK.

John Lepak (left) & Paul Bhatti (right), signing their first fighter, Hunter Lee (center). Courtesy of KRONK

As KRONK Gym prepares for its official relaunch, stay connected at www.kronk.com for more details on opening events, fighter announcements, and special programming.

ABOUT KRONK
Founded in Detroit by the legendary Emanuel Steward, KRONK played a pivotal role in developing some of the greatest champions in boxing history, including Thomas Hearns, Lennox Lewis, and Wladimir Klitschko. Renowned for its winning culture, community spirit, and rich legacy, KRONK continues to be an iconic name in boxing, fostering the next generation of champions while giving back to the city that helped build it.

KRONK SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS
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Website: www.kronk.com

For all inquiries, please contact:
CONTACT: Dawn Kelley, Expand Marketing Group   
PHONE: 734-765-1429
E-MAIL: DawnK@ExpandMarketingGroup.com