EMANUEL STEWARD

Emanuel Steward is a “Class Act.” This is the most often used phrase by people to describe him. The soft-spoken Detroit trainer and manager has guided some of the great boxers of the 1980’s to world championships. Under his watchful eye, Thomas Hearns was turned from a light-punching, gangling amateur into a world champion who won six world titles in five different weight classes. Steward has been involved in over 74 world title matches. Boxers from around the world seek his advice and management. Many are hopeful of wearing the gold, red and blue Kronk colors. The list of champion boxers that he has handled include: Thomas Hearns, Hilmer Kenty, Mike McCallum, Gaby Canizales, Jesse Benavides, Aaron Pryor, Jimmy Paul, Milton McCrory, Michael Moorer, Dennis Andries, Duane Thomas, John David Jackson, Tony Tucker, Leon Spinks, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Leeonzer Barber, Gerald McClellan, Oliver McCall, Lennox Lewis, Mark Breland, Miguel Angel Gonzales, Julio Cesar Chavez, and Oscar De La Hoya.

Steward began boxing at the age of eight in the Detroit Parks and Recreation boxing program. In 1963, Steward won honors as the National Golden Gloves Champion in the 118lb. division, leading the Detroit team to it’s first national title in twenty years. He later returned to the Detroit Parks and Recreation boxing program as a volunteer coach.

In 1977 Steward began his career in professional boxing. His first pros were Thomas Hearns and Mickey Goodwin. His first world champion was Hilmer Kenty who won the lightweight title on March 2, 1980. Five months later Thomas Hearns won his first title. Steward had single-handedly begun Detroit’s boxing renaissance.

Emanuel enjoys dancing, vegetable gardening, cooking, fishing, interior decorating and dining at fine restaurants. He says his biggest joy is working with and talking with the young kids who pass through the gym. Emanuel is a great humanitarian and has been presented with many awards. His most recent is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon someone in the sport of boxing; his election into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. His induction ceremony was June 9, 1996, in Canastota, New York.

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