Down But Not Out (DBNO) Boxing, founded by former professional boxer Alphonso Bailey, is more than a gym — it’s a lifeline for Indianapolis youth.
The minority-owned boxing gym and foundation. Set to open its new facility on May 10, the gym combines boxing training with life skills mentorship, offering a path to discipline, resilience and hope for at-risk teens.
Bailey’s journey from college athlete to incarcerated young man to pro boxer fuels the foundation’s mission.
After turning his life around through boxing, he launched DBNO to guide others facing similar struggles.
“Boxing saved me, but mentorship changed me,” Bailey said. “Now, I want these kids to know they’re not alone.”
The DBNO gym hosts the foundation’s signature Lighthouse Program, where trainers and mentors work with youth after practice to discuss overcoming adversity, setting goals and making positive choices.
“We talk about real life — how to handle anger, peer pressure, even how to ask for help,” Bailey said.
Community support has been critical. A local donor provided the gym space, while corporate partners contributed grants.
“This isn’t just about throwing punches,” Bailey said. “It’s about building futures.”
The grand opening will feature boxing demonstrations, games and registration for summer programs. Bailey hopes the gym becomes a hub for empowerment.
“We’re teaching kids to fight — in the ring and in life,” he said.
The gym is located at 5238 E. 38th Street in Indianapolis.
For details, visit dbno.org.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral. If you want your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
