Description
It’s the Costa Blanca’s premier knockout venue, a place where people of all ages come from all over the world to experience boxing’s golden age and become the best version of themselves. Champs Gym was opened nearly a decade ago by Briton and former welterweight champion Kevin Lushing. He rose to fame in the mid-1990s, when close friends Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank were in their prime and millions of viewers watched every fight on TV. “I reached the top when boxing was booming,” he recalls. “I met some of the real greats, including Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali, but I also learned a lot about myself, about how to live a healthy life, stay fit and healthy. That’s why I opened Champs Gym. I wanted to pass on everything I'd learned – not just to find a new champion, but to help people take care of themselves. Yes, they could have gone to regular gyms, but I wanted to give them a piece of the magic that's unique to boxing. To reach the top, you need to be an exceptional athlete, but it's not just about physical strength. It's also about the lifestyle you lead and the choices you make. That's why Champs Gym is unlike any other gym in Spain, or anywhere else for that matter. Step inside Champs Gym and you're immediately transported to an intoxicating, intense, and invigorating atmosphere. The boxing ring stands proudly center stage, like an amphitheater awaiting its fighters; hanging around it are punching bags, training equipment, jump ropes, dumbbells, and all the trappings of this magical world. The walls are adorned with images of boxing greats, providing moments of inspiration when muscles ache and bones tire. And in the center of this exciting arena stands 57-year-old Lushing, still trim and menacing – as if he could last 12 rounds with anyone. When Lushing was a fighter and won the British title, the fight was so brutal that it was declared fight of the year. Now he is a more relaxed version of that champion, passing on his knowledge and experience to the hundreds of visitors to his gym. Champion’s client list now includes people of all ages and all nationalities. Some come here dreaming of becoming champions, others – solely to learn from the master and get in shape and healthy using unique boxing fitness programs. “There is no better way to get in shape,” says Lushing. “Boxing taught me how to take care of myself, and the lessons I learned have stayed with me throughout my life. “I never expected Champs Gym to resonate with so many people. They are full of life and energy every day, and I defy anyone to not feel that pulse the moment they step into the gym. “It’s time in my life to pass the baton, but the core values of Champs will always remain.” “This is a truly unique opportunity for someone who is inspired by boxing and everything good about the sport to take Champs to the next level. “I’ve realized that young people, especially young adults, often need guidance in life. They want to be the best they can be, but they have a hard time getting started. Champs Gym can set them on the right path and inspire them in ways they never imagined or thought possible.”