Champion's father breaks ground on Arizona boxing gym
George Garcia is building a training facility in Wittmann to support his son Elijah and local athletes.
By Lorenzo Marshall ·
A new boxing gym is under construction in Wittmann, Arizona, a rural community situated between Surprise and Wickenburg. The facility is being built by George Garcia, a former boxer and the father of professional champion Elijah Garcia.
The project aims to provide a local training ground for Elijah, who holds the WBC Latino and WBA Intercontinental titles. Currently, the fighters travel to Las Vegas for training. The new gym will also serve the surrounding community.
Wittmann is a small unincorporated town with a population of approximately 630. It lies about one hour from central Phoenix. George Garcia stated that the town is seeing an increase in local businesses.
Construction is currently in the stage of laying the concrete foundation. The slab measures 55 by 50 feet. The interior of the building will occupy 2,000 square feet. An awning will extend to cover a 15 by 50 foot grass area designated for strength and conditioning exercises.
George Garcia plans to name the facility EG Boxing Gym. The name honors his two eldest sons, Elijah and Elexus. He believes the gym will address a gap in resources for local fighters.
George Garcia finished his professional and amateur career with a record of 30 wins, 16 losses, and one draw. He has coached his son to a professional record of 18 wins, 14 knockouts, and two losses. He offers his coaching services to other fighters at no cost.
He noted that many local coaches believe they are prepared but lack specific experience. He also mentioned that boxing corners are limited to three people, which restricts the ability to add extra support during fights.
Elijah Garcia, who has Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, said the gym helps him focus. He described the training environment as a way to lock in on specific tasks. He uses training camps to maintain this discipline outside the ring.
Jayson Gallegos, the owner of the Las Vegas Fight Club, described the impact of boxing on his own life. He said the sport provided him with discipline and direction after a difficult childhood. He believes the sport keeps young people engaged and off the streets.
The new gym will operate with open hours in the morning, midday, and afternoon. George Garcia expects to attract fighters from across the country to train with his son. He will offer his services as a coach or an extra cornerman for visiting teams.
