The MSR caught up with local boxing champion Jamal James who discussed exciting news, from his upcoming match to the launch of a new Circle of Discipline gym.
James, a professional boxer from South Minneapolis, has held the WBA welterweight title since February 2021. He is scheduled to defend his title and plans on giving back to the community.
Upcoming Boxing Match
James is scheduled to fight Radzhab Butaev on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at the prestigious Michelob ULTRA Arena located at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Showtime starts at 9 pm CST. For those who’d like to support, “You can subscribe to Showtime to see it,” James said.
New Gym Location
James offered details about the new Circle of Discipline (COD) gym that will open this Saturday on October 23 from 12-2 pm at 801 9th St. S.E. Minneapolis, MN 55414.
“I was able to raise some funds so we can get some newer equipment—it’s really dope,” James explained. The space is almost twice as big as the previous Lake Street location. The new space enables the COD to serve more individuals throughout the Twin Cities.
James emphasized COD’s Adonis Frazier’s hard work in helping to launch the new gym. The COD team has worked as a collective to bring the dream to fruition.
Individuals can expect services and classes. James said, “Just like the old gym did, we’re gonna offer the same programs and make sure people get in shape. We also have our leadership group called “Pursuit of Discipline.”
Fundraiser concert at the Armory
James also spoke about the upcoming “I Am Legend” concert will showcase Rick Ross, 2 Chainz, and Jeezy, and will take place at the Armory on December 4, 2021. Part of the proceeds will be allocated to COD. The Armory Foundation made the concert possible.
James shared, “The Armory Foundation—they gotta big concert with 2 Chainz, Jeezy, and Rick Ross. They hooked it up so a percentage of the profits will be going towards the Circle which is really dope.” He is grateful for the outpouring of support.
Jamal advised young people to roll up their sleeves. “You’ve got to put the work in whatever you’re doing, you have to stick with it.”
He added, “If you want to be successful, put the time and energy in whatever you’re trying to do, and don’t be afraid to fail and restart—love what you do and stick with it.”
For more information, please check out www.circleofdiscipline.org.
Ashley Lauren is a contributing writer at the MN Spokesman-Recorder.