One Way Boxing Opens On Goose Island With A Mission That Goes Beyond The Ring

David Ortiz opened One Way Boxing Club on Goose Island to serve as a safe and affordable space for youth and families in Chicago. The facility, housed in a transformed 250,000-square-foot warehouse, features a boxing ring, performance training center, and weight room, with future plans to include a satellite for the global fitness sport Hyrox. In its inaugural year, One Way has hosted amateur boxing events, provided paid internships for teens, and established partnerships with local organizations. Ortiz emphasizes that all members receive equal training, regardless of their financial situation, with memberships priced affordably. He draws on his previous experience with The Barracks, a community hub that blended boxing with art and streetwear culture before it closed.

The name "One Way" symbolizes Chicago's culture and the gym's mission to promote upward movement. Ortiz's approach fosters a sense of community, encouraging members to support one another and engage positively. Testimonials from members, like Franco Soto, highlight the gym's impact on personal growth and emotional well-being.