Jose Benavidez Snr is purchasing Central Boxing gym in Phoenix, according to BoxingScene. The historic gym, located near the Arizona State Capitol, has been a crucial venue for boxing training and events for many years.
What happened
Jose Benavidez Snr, trainer of his son David Benavidez, announced on Tuesday that he has reached an agreement to buy Central Boxing, a classic gym less than two blocks from the Arizona State Capitol. The deal is expected to finalize this week as Benavidez prepares to corner Gabriela Tellez during her lightweight title bout on Saturday at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale.[1]
“There’s so much history here,” said Benavidez, who previously managed the gym nearly 20 years ago. “I want to keep it the same. I want to keep the outside—with all those great murals— the same. Everything the same.”
Originally called a corner store, the building transitioned to a gym but lacks air conditioning, contributing to its legacy. The atmosphere once drew Mike Tyson, who trained there in 2005 despite the sweltering 120-degree temperatures.
Why it matters
Central Boxing has served as an influential training ground for numerous champions, including Floyd Mayweather and Julio Cesar Chavez. Its preservation is significant not only for local boxing history but also for future generations of fighters seeking to train in a storied environment. Benavidez’s ownership could also attract new talent and revive interest in the gym’s historic legacy.[3]
Background
On May 20, 2020, Benavidez began preliminary discussions to acquire Central Boxing. These talks continued intermittently over the following years. Initially managed by Benavidez when his son David was a child, the gym served as a playground and training ground for young athletes, laying the foundation for David’s boxing future.[2]
In the past several years, the Benavidez family relocated from Phoenix, with Jose Snr operating a gym in Seattle. Interest in Central Boxing reignited during David’s recent training camps, ultimately leading to the current purchase agreement.
What’s next
Benavidez is expected to finalize the purchase of Central Boxing later this week. The gym’s rich history will continue under his stewardship, potentially fostering the next wave of boxing talent in Phoenix.
