About KRONK
We Are Boxing
Full-service athlete management including training, contract negotiation, endorsements, sponsorships, legal support, marketing team, community engagement, branding and more.
Detroit
Original foundation and global standard
40+
World champions connected to KRONK
Full service
Management, development, licensing, and partnerships
What KRONK does
Business, boxing, and brand growth
KRONK supports athletes and partners through management, development, long-term planning, and responsible licensing opportunities.
Athlete support
Boxing Management
Our comprehensive boxing management services ensure that each fighter receives personalized attention and strategic guidance. From securing fight opportunities to negotiating contracts, we are committed to advancing our athletes' careers with integrity and professionalism.
Talent pipeline
Fighter Development and Recruitment
KRONK Boxing prides itself on discovering and developing the next generation of boxing champions. We offer state-of-the-art training facilities, expert coaching, and tailored development programs to hone the skills and talents of aspiring boxers. Our recruitment process is meticulous, ensuring we identify and nurture raw talent from the ground up.
Career strategy
Fighter Future Planning
We believe in long-term success, which is why we provide our fighters with robust future planning services. This includes financial planning, career transitioning support, and post-retirement opportunities to ensure our athletes are well-prepared for life after boxing.
Brand partnerships
Licensing Opportunities
KRONK Boxing is a globally recognized brand with a rich legacy. We offer licensing opportunities for businesses and individuals looking to align with our prestigious name. From apparel to equipment, our licensing program ensures high-quality products that reflect the KRONK standard of excellence.
Emanuel Steward standard
A gym built to develop fighters and people.
Emanuel Steward, a former amateur boxer turned trainer, founded KRONK Gym in the basement of the KRONK Recreation Center. His vision was to create a facility where local youths could train and develop their boxing skills. Steward's expertise and dedication quickly turned KRONK into a powerhouse within the amateur boxing scene.
Origin
Started in a basement.
Emanuel Steward built a boxing culture from discipline, fundamentals, and belief in Detroit youth.
Standard
Carried forward.
The same pressure, respect, and work ethic still shape the KRONK name today.
Team
Meet the KRONK team
The people helping preserve the legacy, expand the brand, and support the boxing standard behind KRONK.
KRONK team
Paul Bhatti - CEO
Paul Bhatti has spent the last 31 years in the IT Industry. As a leader with people at the core of his philosophy, Paul has managed diverse teams across startups, private equity-backed businesses, and multi-billion dollar global corporations, focusing on team building, structure, and strategic execution. Paul is a lifelong boxing enthusiast, and will be leveraging his years in business, combined with his passion for boxing into restoring KRONK, the most iconic brand in Boxing history.
KRONK team
John Lepak - COO
John Lepak's journey began at the Original KRONK Gym, where he trained both as an amateur and a professional boxer. Emanuel Steward personally recruited Lepak to be his office manager and assistant during training camps for legendary fighters like Thomas Hearns, Julio Cesar Chavez, Jeff Fenech, Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, and many others. In addition to his managerial roles, Lepak served as a promotional coordinator for over 250 fights, including the iconic Mike Tyson vs. Lennox Lewis bout. Today, Lepak remains dedicated to KRONK, serving as the Chief Operating Officer.
KRONK team
Amer Abdallah - VP of International Business
Amer Abdallah is a former undefeated world champion kickboxer and a respected figure in the combat sports world and has played a pivotal role in the development of Boxing in the Middle East. Beyond sports, he is a savvy entrepreneur, investing in various business ventures, including sports management and fitness. His dedication to boxing combined with his business acumen have earned him recognition as a leader in the industry. His role will include spearheading international partnerships, enhancing KRONK’s global presence, and contributing to the strategic growth of KRONK’s brand in new and emerging geographies.
KRONK team
Johnathon Banks - Head Trainer
Johnathon Banks is a cornerstone of the KRONK legacy. A Detroit native and direct protégé of the legendary Emanuel Steward, Johnathon transitioned from a world-class professional career to becoming one of the most respected tactical minds in global boxing.
Hand-picked by Steward to carry the torch, Banks has served as head trainer for some of the sport's most dominant world champions, including Wladimir Klitschko and Gennady "GGG" Golovkin. His coaching philosophy is rooted in the "KRONK Style” - combining elite technical discipline with the standards and championship habits synonymous with the red and gold. Now back at the helm as Head Trainer, Johnathon is dedicated to preserving the gym’s authentic heritage while developing the next generation of championship talent. We are honored to have his expertise leading the gym.
KRONK team
Mikey Shumaker - Director of VIP Relations
Mikey Shumaker is a seasoned expert in VIP Relations, known for his exceptional ability to connect and engage with high-profile individuals. With an incredible network of celebrities and influencers, Shumaker has become the go-to person for managing and coordinating VIP events. His expertise ensures that every detail of these exclusive gatherings is flawlessly executed. Shumaker's reputation for professionalism and discretion has made him a trusted figure in the world of luxury events and celebrity relations
KRONK team
Marie Steward - Founder Emeritus
Mrs. Marie Steward, wife of Emanuel Steward, was the nurturing heart of KRONK from its earliest days. She helped build the care and support system around the young fighters, often staying up to the early morning hours washing and sewing uniforms for a young Thomas Hearns and other boxers. Marie also assisted Emanuel in structuring some of KRONK's earliest contracts when boxers began to turn pro. Her warmth and compassion made the KRONK team a true family, where athletes found strength both in and out of the ring.
KRONK team
Sylvia Steward - Business Consultant
Sylvia Steward, daughter of KRONK founder Emanuel Steward, is dedicated to preserving and expanding the KRONK legacy. Blending tradition with innovation, in her new role as a consultant to KRONK, Sylvia will be an important part of continuing the legacy of Emanuel Steward and the global boxing powerhouse he founded while actively engaging in community outreach to inspire positive change.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about the gym, merchandise, training camps, pro boxing, sponsorships, and licensing opportunities.
FAQ
Is there a KRONK location?
KRONK Gym is located at the historic Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center, located at 670 Wilkins Street, Detroit, MI 48201. This marks the next chapter in our legacy of developing elite amateur and professional fighters.
FAQ
Where can I get KRONK merchandise?
Visit our official website at www.KRONK.com. All of our merchandise and collaboration releases can be found there.
FAQ
Do you offer training camps?
Professional boxers can contact KRONK about training camp opportunities at info@kronk.com. Media requests can also be sent to info@kronk.com, and a member of the team will follow up.
FAQ
Does KRONK have pro boxing?
Yes. KRONK has a professional roster of fighters. To all Managers, Promoters, and interested fighters, please contact us at info@kronk.com.
FAQ
Do you offer MMA training?
We do not offer any MMA training at this time.
FAQ
Where can I make donations or sponsorships?
If you would like to donate to the ESCOT (Emanuel Steward's Champions of Tomorrow) Youth Development Program, please visit our website at kronk.com and search for ESCOT. Alternatively, you can visit escot.org to donate directly.
FAQ
Who do I contact for licensing opportunities?
For licensing, media, sponsorship, collaboration, and business opportunities connected to the KRONK brand, contact KRONK through the official inquiry page or email info@kronk.com.
FAQ
Can I host an event or private group at KRONK?
Yes. KRONK offers opportunities for corporate events, team-building sessions, media productions, private training experiences, and special events. Please contact info@kronk.com to discuss your requirements.
FAQ
What are your membership options?
KRONK offers memberships for youth, adults, fitness enthusiasts, amateur boxers, and competitive fighters. Membership options include boxing training, fitness access, classes, and personal training.
Next step
A legacy with work still ahead.
KRONK is history, business, training, and community moving in the same direction.
Contact
Talk to the KRONK team.
Reach out for partnerships, licensing, boxing management, sponsorships, media, or general questions.
History
See where the standard started.
Follow the path from Emanuel Steward to the fighters and colors that made KRONK known worldwide.
Official facts
Find current KRONK information.
See the official store, Detroit gym, history, current activity, and contact information in one place.














