The first step is usually the toughest. Many people miss out on valuable opportunities to enrich their lives by succumbing to fear and refusing to make the necessary changes to catalyze their growth. Known for the inspirational motto of ‘No Excuses, Just Results’ Kayo Boxing provides a unique and motivational opportunity in Long Island, New York – offering a range of classes for over 20 years. Till today, the boxing gym remains committed to rewriting the narrative of this often misunderstood sport. Though it may seem intimidating at first, boxing has changed the lives of many who have entered the Kayo Boxing facility and embodies its mantra of ‘I can and I will.’
From humble beginnings to revolutionizing the industry, Kayo Boxing has left a lasting impact on over 2,000 members and counting. While the numbers continue to rise, the organization embodies an honest desire to make a change, shatter the status quo, and foster a welcoming environment for all. This approach – to a sport typically associated with adult men – has allowed Kayo Boxing to capture the attention of all ages, genders, and skill levels, from kids and teens to seniors and those with disabilities.
Led by Michael Corleone, a former professional boxer, the facility hosts an array of classes including Muay Thai and kickboxing, designed to address the needs of each individual. Kayo Boxing embodies its ethos to forge connections with a family of attendees, who dared to take that first step and break the barriers in their way.
As the organization elevates as a business, Michael has personally coached and recruited five employees, hoping to establish growth that is both organic and value-driven. He ensures that members receive nothing but passionate expertise, so he may actualize his goals to transform boxing into a universally loved sport.
One of the leading reasons for its popularity is the unique feeling Kayo Boxing gives its members. Michael explains: “The Kayo family sees this facility not only as a space for exercise but as a temple of learning where true transformation takes place. I take great pride in what I do and always make sure I give members more than their dollar’s worth.”
This approach stems from Michael’s personal boxing journey and his inspiring can-do attitude. Before entering the world of boxing, he would maintain his fitness through cross-country running, but after moving to Puerto Rico and running into an outdoor boxing exhibition, everything changed. His father owned an established garment business, (which Michael was expected to enter into) and his family became well-known for this reason. So when Michael was spotted at the boxing exhibition, he was pushed into the middle. With bystanders chanting his name and hoping he would undermine his father’s power by taking a loss, Micheal won by knockout in just the second round. Despite the odds being in the opponent’s favor, this victory empowered Michael with a sense of purpose, a passionate feeling that would change the course of his life thereafter.
After winning the fight and disputing his father for six months, he was eventually granted the freedom to pursue his dreams. Trained by the very best in the industry, including three world champions, Michael honed his skills, improved his mental strength, and fed his growing hunger for success. His most pivotal moment came in 1992, when Corleone, training as an amateur boxer at the time, defeated the National Professional Puerto Rican champion, Roberto Mercedes.
Since then, Michael’s career has taken off to great heights, enriched by many rewarding victories and humbling losses. 2003 stands out to him as the year his life changed as he dedicated time toward his new marriage and welcomed his first child. In the same year, he founded Kayo Boxing paved the way for a legacy that has lasted for over 2 decades.
“Boxing is like life—if you get knocked down, you have to get back up,” shares founder Michael Corleone. “No matter who you are, you can do it. No excuses. Just Results. It’s not just a catchy line; it’s how I live my life and how I want everyone at Kayo to live theirs. Without fear or hesitation, but with intention, vigor, and determination.”
Kayo Boxing is not just a gym, it’s way more than that. It’s a place where physical strength intertwines with personal development and mental transformation, where each success is recognized and celebrated by the Kayo family, and where dreams can come true.
