Top Heavy Weight Contender and Trainer Johnathon Banks

Why did you choose Boxing over other sports?

Because I have loved the sport every since I could walk and began to fight, I knew I wanted to box and would one day be the greatest. I knew I would be the best trainer or fighter in the world. I worked hard to prove myself and I continue to work hard.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Being asked to train the heavy weight champion of the world and being great at it.Wladimir is a great guy and great person to work with.  I am honored to work with him.

Who are some of the biggest influences in your career and why?

Emanuel Steward, he was my mentor, trainer and friend. KRONK GYM was home for me. While training me in sports, Emanuel also taught me a lot about life, living and learning.

Considering your success as a trainer, how was it training Wladimir Klitschko?

I am still his trainer and everyday we train and it is an adventure. He is a true champion and I love working with him and his camp.  Being around professional and good people makes me forget you are working.

What community events have you been involved with recently?  

I love Detroit and I love kids.  I recently spent time with the families at the Salvation Army’s Annual Holiday Event.  Mary Lou Lantz at the Salvation Army helped my team set up the event. I enjoyed seeing the kids faces as I spoke to them.  I hope they realize I was once a kid  from Detroit with a dream too.  I also hosted a toy drive at Northland Roller Rink on 8 Mile in Detroit.  Watching the families come in enjoy themselves made me feel good.  I am a firm believer in giving back.  When you are blessed, you should be a blessing.

What other things other than boxing are you working on or planning? 

My team has been bringing me offers of everything from modeling to TV shows.  I am looking at these projects but I haven’t committed to anything just yet.   I am also going to be announcing a grand opening or launch soon.  So stay tuned.

When you have kids, would you allow them to be a boxer? 

I think I would be a supportive father.  I would encourage them to be the best at whatever they are passionate about, as long as it’s legal.  (laughs)

If you could leave our readers with one last piece of business advice, what would it be?

Be all that you can be and never give up on your dream. Work hard to achieve your dreams and push forward with everything you want. You can do it.  You can make your dreams come true.

Follow Johnathon Banks at Twitter