By: Sean Crose
Coach Eric Kelly clearly understands his path towards the sport of boxing. “If Kelly looks familiar,” I wrote back in 2020, “it is because he has been spotted everywhere, from Vice Sports (where he was a broadcaster), commercials (he was in a Powerade commercial) to the UFC (where he worked as a boxing coach and angler). However, Kelly’s home is Southbox, where he provides instruction – and sometimes pizza – to those who want or need it, regardless of age, background, or pedigree. Southbox is Kelly’s New York City gym. Noted for providing children with the “Pizza Box” charity program, the gym is also known for its serious combat training. Just ask Gervonta Davis.
“He’s working out at my gym,” Kelly told me the day after Davis’ thunderous win over Rolando Romero on Saturday night at Barclay’s Center. “He was there for a few days.” It’s not that Kelly and Davis are complete strangers. “I’ve met Tank before,” he told me. I know his coaches well.” According to Kelly, what stands out about Davis is essentially what stands out for all great boxers — his hard work and dedication to the craft. “He’s a smart boxer and a hard worker,” Kelly said after watching Davis prepare Romero in his gym. “I am a fan”
Needless to say, Kelly was impressed – as most – with Davis’ impressive performance on Saturday night in Brooklyn. Kelly said of Davis: “He let Rolly (Romero) bring him down. “He’s showing he’s a proficient fighter.” Kelly was also impressed with how Davis was able to turn his fight with Romero into a must-see event. Kelly said: “His live portal is amazing. “When was the last time you saw Madonna at battles?” If Kelly is passionate about boxing it’s because he lives and breathes it. A top-rated amateur, this man is a boxer who needs attention before a pool accident damages his eye.
As good as he is, though, it literally sounds like Kelly is someone called to help others. His Pizza Box program gets a lot of kids out into the streets and into an environment where they can do something really useful with their lives. Kelly talks about young people coming to his gym for free training. “One day, you’ll be in a position where you can give back.” A man who knows his business – both in and out of the ring.
