Houstonians, Get Your Mike Tyson On
As we close out the celebrated ending of Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15), many locals have been highlighted for their contributions and extraordinary work in their local communities.
If you’re a Houstonian in the boxing scene or even have a curiosity, let us introduce you to veteran boxing coach David Martinez.
He’s the owner and head coach of Martinez Boxing which enriches kids and adults in the art of the stress-reliever sport.
When the pandemic occurred, Martinez, like many other businesses, had to close its doors. However, as the kids say, “We Outside!,” the coach is back with a new location in downtown Houston.
He’s trained professionals, amateurs, and kids for nearly two decades so obviously, something is working in his favor.
Very well-known in the Houston area, the boxing motivator has a love for the sport in addition to who he trains.
Moreover, Martinez has been able to use boxing as a catalyst to rebuild confidence in prospects through his community and empowerment.
During a recent highlight on Houston’s HoustonLifeTV, hosts Derrick Shore and Courtney Zavala introduced Martinez’s efforts to a brand new audience of hopefuls. He said there are some great incentives for the sport,
“We try to make it like a family…Boxing has so [many] payoffs for the kids and working with people who don’t believe in themselves. And then they get out there and they do amazing.”
One of the fighters he trains is 29-year-old Jose Morales who ranked 20th in the flyweight division part of the World Boxing Council. The young boxer acknowledged Martinez for his efforts professionally and personally saying,
“He was one of the guys, besides boxing, helped me out financially, and not even that, and like emotionally and motivation.”
Martinez admitted that while he thought the “big payoff” would include the notoriety and titles, there’s something profound about the inner workings of boxing as it correlates to the community,
“And, but the biggest payoff in boxing was watching the kids actually [come] out of boxing.”
Press play below to see Martinez in action:
According to a study, Hispanics were not only the least paid in the sport but they are second behind whites when it comes to actual participation.
Mexico ranks first worldwide among countries with the most boxing world champions and is the second country to have world champions accredited in all of the current boxing divisions.
Current Rankings For Boxers Across Race Barriers
Martinez Boxing is located in the downtown area of Houston. Interested participants can get a quote for rates and more information at Martinez Boxing.
