Top 5 Boxing Gyms in Chicago

Chicago stands out as a city that has given the sport some of its most legendary moments and champions because of its rich boxing history. The boxing gyms in the Windy City have been instrumental in shaping young talent and fostering the unyielding spirit of the sport over the years. Chicago has a variety of institutions devoted to the sweet science for those looking to enter the ring, whether as a promising professional or a passionate amateur. The top ten boxing gyms in Chicago are listed below (please note that these facilities are solely dedicated to boxing):

1. Windy City Boxing Gym

2. Unanimous Boxing Gym:

• Location: 2764 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
• Details: Unanimous Boxing Gym was founded in 2016 as a result of a discussion between Trinidad Garcia and Yuri Polyak and is located in the center of Logan Square. Their common goal was to build a gym that accurately reflected their love of boxing. This USA Boxing-sanctioned facility has expanded over the years to serve its 400-strong membership base by offering an impressive average of 8 classes per day.

The modern infrastructure of the gym guarantees that users, from beginners to experts, have access to high-quality equipment and training programs. Traditional boxing drills like jump roping, shadow boxing, partner drills, heavy bag, speed bag, and pad work are included in their classes. The emphasis on technique in their strategy stands out. Although sparring is not covered in the classes, the skills taught are real and useful in the ring.

Trinidad Garcia has a unique vision for the gym: he wants Unanimous Boxing Gym to pay homage to the 1950s boxing scene, when the sport was as much about teamwork as it was about individual prowess.

The gym places a significant priority on member and public safety. The gym has very specific guidelines for using the equipment, and it is advised that users bring their gloves, hand wraps, and clean gym shoes. It is wise to keep class sizes small so that instructors can give each student individualized attention and form correction.

Unanimous Boxing offers pathways to both amateur and professional boxing arenas, with coaches on hand to provide guidance, for those interested in a more professional trajectory in the sport.

Logan Square’s Unanimous Boxing Gym offers a thorough boxing experience. It stands out as a noteworthy option for those looking to begin or continue their boxing journey in the Chicago area because of its structured classes, emphasis on technique, and community-centered philosophy.

3. Oakley Fight Club

• Location: 410 N Oakley Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Details: Chicago-based Oakley Fight Club presents itself as a place steeped in the discipline and rich traditions of boxing. The gym actively participates in the local and national amateur boxing scene, sending athletes to prestigious competitions like the Ringside World Championship, Women’s National Golden Gloves, USA Boxing National Golden Gloves, and Chicago Golden Gloves. Beyond amateur competition, the gym also has professional fighters who have competed for Chicago and other local and international venues.

  Gym members at Oakley Fight Club can anticipate a demanding workout that combines a traditional boxer’s workout with high-intensity cardio routines, all leading up to a demanding abdominal workout. The boxing club takes great pride in the knowledge of its instructors, many of whom have years, if not decades, of combined experience. From complete beginners to seasoned competitors, these instructors hope to impart authentic boxing techniques, ensuring that each student gains insightful knowledge and useful skills. The pledge? The trainees leave feeling successful and like champions.

  Oakley Fight Club gives those with a strong interest in sparring a way to do so. Interested individuals can be paired with either a boxer or an instructor to practice and perfect techniques learned in classes after completing the prerequisite of a month of boxing instruction. The gym offers the convenience of renting the necessary sparring gear, but it also requires that participants in sparring have a mouthpiece.

  The training staff at Oakley Fight Club combines a wide range of expertise:

  Carlos Castaneda has a long history in boxing, athletic training, marathon running, and organizing sporting events. His victory in the 2011 Ringside World Championship Tournament is noteworthy.

  Hector Gurrola gained international experience when he started boxing at the age of 12 in Mexico. Hector has 30 amateur fights under his belt, spread out across states like California, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Chicago, giving him professional soccer experience.

  Danny Escudero has a distinguished boxing history that includes a 110-5 record and three Golden Gloves appearances. Danny has ten years of experience coaching fighters in mixed martial arts and boxing.

  Rick Escudero has a 60-10 amateur record and started boxing at the age of 16. He has competed in the Golden Gloves tournament five times. Rick’s love of combat sports transcends boxing and includes training amateur and professional fighters as well as competitive running.

  Oakley Fight Club provides a complete boxing environment, supported by knowledgeable coaches, demanding training schedules, and a clear transition from introductory classes to competitive sparring. It’s a commendable choice for Chicago residents who want to learn more about or advance their boxing careers.

4. Sam Colonna Boxing

• Location: 2600 W 35th St, Chicago, IL 60632, United States
• Details:The Sam Colonna Boxing Gym, which is in the center of Chicago, has made a permanent mark on the history of boxing in that city. This gym, which is run by Sam Colonna and has an impressive history of training fighters going back more than three decades, has become a haven for both amateur and professional boxers.
  From 2008 to 2012, the Chicago Boxing Club won the Chicago Golden Gloves Tournament Team Championship Trophy every year under Sam’s direction. This outstanding accomplishment demonstrates the gym’s commitment to developing talent and promoting boxing excellence.

   One might notice the variety of testimonials that line the walls of the gym upon entering it; each one is a testament to the profound impact Sam has had on countless people. Rita Figueroa, a former fighter, shares a memorable anecdote in which she describes how Sam served as both a coach and a lifeline for her throughout her fights. Antonio Canas and Doug Magno add their voices to the chorus of gratitude by praising the caliber of the facility’s training and sparring opportunities.
   Yet, Mark Allen’s testimony offers a closer look at Sam’s character. Sam is an excellent coach, and Mark emphasizes that, but he also plays a larger role in the lives of many people who frequent the gym. Sam portrays himself as a mentor who genuinely cares about the wellbeing and development of his students through his actions, which range from lending a sympathetic ear to forgiving gym dues to even providing necessary equipment. Many people express a similar opinion, indicating that for them Sam is more than just a coach; he’s also a friend, a mentor, and occasionally even a giver.

  Sam Colonna Boxing Gym provides a wide range of classes for different audiences in terms of facilities. There is something for everyone, from rigorous Boot Camps to youth-focused programs and boxing classes. Notably, the gym is used by professional fighters and amateur competitors as a training facility during the day, so students receive a realistic education.

  The Sam Colonna Boxing Gym is a renowned establishment that combines technical boxing instruction with real mentoring. Sam’s multifaceted training philosophy and dedication to his students in and out of the ring make this gym an essential component of Chicago’s boxing scene. This gym offers a special fusion of challenging training and a sense of community, whether you’re an amateur/pro boxer or a boxing beginner.

5. Knuckleheads Boxing

• Location: 633 S Plymouth Ct, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
• Details: The bustling center of Chicago is home to the Knucklehead Boxing Gym, which stands out from many other gyms due to its more intense dedication to boxing. The reputation of this gym is tightly linked to the knowledge and enthusiasm of its trainers rather than just its amenities or location.

The star of Knucklehead Boxing Gym is Coach Marty Jakubowski, whose name is synonymous in the boxing world with tenacity and success. In 1979, Marty started boxing as a young, eager 9-year-old. He won numerous titles at the state, tri-state, regional, and even national levels as he developed into an accomplished boxer. His impressive amateur record of 125 victories against 35 losses demonstrates his tenacity. His entry into professional boxing is legendary, and he has a winning streak of 38 consecutive fights, including one against Julio Cesar Chavez. With international fights and numerous appearances on prestigious television networks, Marty’s professional record of 118 wins and just 7 losses is evidence of his talent and tenacity. Today, Marty uses his wealth of knowledge to train and mentor Knucklehead employees while living by his catchphrase, “I WALKED THE WALK.” He is committed to teaching every willing student important life lessons in addition to the sport.

Coach Siron Harrison, on the other hand, brings a broad range of abilities to Knucklehead Boxing Gym. His experience goes beyond traditional boxing because he competes professionally in MMA and Muay Thai Kickboxing, giving members access to a variety of training methods. Siron, a native of Chicago, approaches training holistically. He emphasizes the value of both physical and mental well-being. Many gym goers identify with his commitment to assisting people—regardless of experience level—in achieving their goals. Every kickboxing class Siron instructs reflects his enthusiasm, and his distinctive motto, “Glory or Valhalla,” sums up his dedication to giving it his all as a competitor and a coach.

Knucklehead Boxing Gym provides mentorship, dedication, and a rich history in addition to physical training. This gym is a haven for those seeking to not only learn boxing or kickboxing but also to immerse themselves in the spirit and ethos of combat sports, led by legends like Marty Jakubowski and Siron Harrison. Knucklehead Boxing Gym is a must-visit location for anyone in Chicago looking to improve their abilities, find mentorship, and become a part of a real combat sports community.

Honorable Mention: Rick Ramos Boxing Gym

• Location: Basement, 600 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
• Details: As soon as one enters the Rick Ramos Boxing Club, they are welcomed by a history and atmosphere that exudes commitment, professionalism, and a deep love for the sport of boxing. Coach Rick Ramos, a venerable figure in the Chicago boxing community with more than 20 years of experience, is in charge of this organization.

  Rick Ramos has an impressive list of accomplishments. His expertise in the boxing world is amply demonstrated by the numerous titles that his fighters have won, including two ABO, two WBC, two WBO, two WBA, IBF, and the prestigious RING title. He holds a coaching record of 242-81-2 and a managing record of 57-6-2. Particularly, winning the WBC Title solidifies Ramos’s standing as a World Class Trainer.

  Additionally, his influence extends beyond just titles. Ramos’ dedication to the sport and its athletes is clear from his work as a manager, coach, and advisor. He has been instrumental in reviving the careers of many fighters from Chicago, and boxers and coaches from all over the world seek his advice.

  Ramos’ partnership with the hard-hitting female fighter Jessica “Caskilla” McCaskill is evidence of his progressive outlook. The first female to sign with Warriors Boxing Promotions and the first to headline a boxing event in Chicago, McCaskill has broken glass ceilings while under Ramos’ guidance and management.

  The club’s course offerings are varied and cater to a range of demographics. The club makes sure that its members receive the best training program, whether it’s the early morning or late evening Boxing Boot Camps or the competitive Youth Boxing sessions. The classes are coed, which encourages inclusivity and fosters a lively learning environment. The club provides both private and group training sessions for those looking for a more individualized experience.
  The club’s generous free parking is one of its underappreciated conveniences for members. The instruction to arrive 10 minutes early for class highlights the commitment to discipline and punctuality that is required for the sport.

  In the world of boxing gyms, the Rick Ramos Boxing Club is a shining example. This facility is more than just a gym; it is a testament to the rich tapestry of boxing in Chicago. It has a world-class trainer at its forefront, an inclusive and diverse training schedule, and a history of shattering barriers and breaking records. The opportunity to train with Coach Rick Ramos would be a blessing for any aspiring boxer or fitness fanatic.