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I had the pleasure of stepping into Decatur Boxing Club, and the pleasure was absolutely mine. From the moment I sat down with owner Xavier Biggs, I could feel the energy that makes this space more than just a gym.

 

As a longtime fan of the Rocky movie series, I’ve always been drawn to the grit, grind, and heart of boxing. But speaking with Xavier reminded me that boxing isn’t just about the fight inside the ring—it’s about culture, history, and legacy. His gym is the very epitome of Philly-style boxing: tough, disciplined, soulful, and authentic.

 

Xavier’s story stretches far beyond Decatur. Growing up in West Philadelphia, he was surrounded by the boxing tradition that shaped him, his brother Tyrell Biggs, and countless other champions. Tyrell went on to capture Olympic gold in 1984, while Xavier built a legacy of his own as a trainer, mentor, and cultural force. From sparring with legends like Pernell Whitaker and Kevin Howard in Sugar Ray Leonard’s comeback camp, to training world champions and celebrities alike—including Isra Girgrah, Terri “The Boss” Moss, Jorge Lacierva, and even Usher for his role as Sugar Ray Leonard in Hands of Stone—his impact has touched every corner of sports and entertainment.

 

One of the most striking parts of Xavier’s story is how far his influence reaches. Over the years, he’s worked with fighters across every level of the sport, including Terence “Bud” Crawford, the Omaha-born superstar widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound boxer of this era. To know that a boxing mind from Philly helped shape a champion of Crawford’s caliber speaks volumes about Xavier’s knowledge, technique, and ability to connect with fighters on a deeper level.

 

Xavier Biggs is also known for his signature jump rope style called the Sugar Ray Rope Slap. More than just a conditioning exercise, it’s a full-body workout that blends rhythm, endurance, and the fun of dancing. Rooted in boxing history, this technique embodies the art of enduring pain while creating beauty in motion. By weaving the Sugar Ray Rope Slap into his training, Xavier has developed an authentic style that produces not only fighters but also entertainers who can carry the discipline, timing, and creativity of boxing into every aspect of performance.

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Today, at Decatur Boxing Club, Xavier continues to pour his wisdom into the next generation. The gym has become a hub not only for fighters, but for anyone who wants to embrace the discipline and artistry of boxing. It’s cultured. It’s rooted. It’s Philly grit with Southern soul. It’s the human weapon factory!

What stood out most in our conversation wasn’t just Xavier’s long list of accolades, but his genuine love for the sport and the people who walk through his doors. Whether he’s training champions like Carlos “Kitten” Monroe or guiding a celebrity like Kevin Hart through the discipline of boxing, his passion is undeniable.

Pictures are from Decatur boxing