History
Gleason's New York
Gleason's may be new to London, but its history dates back to 1937
when the doors to the first Gleason's opened in New York.
Gleason's New York, has been home to many of the best trainers and fighters in the
industry. Some world title winners include:
- Jake Lamotta
- Chris Eubank
- Barry McGuigan
- Larry Holmes
- George Foreman
- Ray Leonard
- Mike Tyson
- and the legend that is Muhammed Ali
Birth of White Collar Boxing
Gleason's New York was the founder of the phonomenem that is White Collar boxing.
Traditionally boxing has been a working class sport, but Gleason's brings together
people from all backgrounds.
The first contest was held in 1988 between Dr Richard Novak an attorney / veterinarian
and Dr. David Lawrence who held a Phd in English Literature. After the contest the
two Gentlemen went to dinner to celebrate the birth of a new sport.
Since then White Collar Boxing has been the fastest growing corporate contact sport
in the world. Gleason's New York membership is made up of 75% White Collar Boxers.
The result has lead to a gym full of diversity. Within the gym there is a true sense
of equality and acceptance. All members of the gym identify with each other as figthers
first and foremost, their differences fade into the background in the gym. This
is a great part of the vibe that has been created at Gleason's. Whether you are
working out, a real fighter, a wannabe, a participant or a spectator, you are welcome,
and respected.
Gleason's London
In 2004 John Rooney Jr, BBBofC trainer and manager, brought Gleason's to London.
While the location and layout may be different, the ethos remains the same.
On Hollyrood Street, in between the traditional home of boxing in the East
End, the Old Kent Road, and the financial district of the City of London, Gleason's
welcomes allcomers.
Recent champions to be seen at the gym include Martin Lindsay, Ted Bami from the James Cook stable
who recently claimed the EBU Light Welterweight Belt against the tough Italian Guiseppe
Lari, and is now looking at moving on to bigger things.
Gleasons also was home to Canadian Steve Molitor in his run up to the IBF World
Title fight against Michael Hunter. Steve did what he looked like he would do in
the gym and won the IBF Super Bantam Weight Title with a KO in round 5.
Gleasons London has a variety of members, from Ladies trying to keep fit, City workers
having personal training to improve their fitness and technique, to the growing
stables of professional fighters.
Everyone is welcome, accepted and respected at Gleasons London.