40 Years of Fortitude - Our History

Established in 1985, Fortitude Boxing has stood as one of Australia’s true “old school” boxing gyms, a place where hard work, respect, and community are as important as titles and trophies. Now proudly operating from its fresh premises at 68 Abbotsford Road, Bowen Hills, the gym remains a hub for fighters and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Fortitude is more than a gym, it’s a family. From beginners looking for a new way to get fit, to aspiring amateurs chasing their first bout, to seasoned professionals preparing for championship fights, the Fortitude team is dedicated to the growth of every individual who walks through its doors. For over 40 years, the gym has trained champions, with coaches and fighters boasting national and international success across both amateur and professional ranks.

But Fortitude’s story is also one of resilience. In the early hours of July 2nd, 2019, a devastating fire destroyed the original Kyabra Street gym, claiming decades’ worth of trophies, belts, and boxing memorabilia. What could have been the end of an era became a testament to the spirit of the Fortitude family. With the community rallying behind them, the gym reopened at Robertson Street, keeping training alive while plans for a permanent home took shape.

That home became reality in June 2021, when Fortitude unveiled its new Abbotsford Road facility, a space equipped with a full-sized ring, extensive bag stations, weights, cardio machines, and strength and conditioning gear. It’s a gym built to deliver world-class training sessions, no matter the goal.

At the centre of it all is founder and owner Steve, a man whose influence on Australian boxing is unmatched. Over his storied career, Steve has trained, managed, and promoted Olympians, Commonwealth Games medallists, State and National champions, and even a World Champion. He’s trained more Australian champions than any other trainer in the country, and his passion for the sport extends far beyond Brisbane. Known for supporting “Bush Boxers” in remote towns such as Cloncurry, Mt Isa, Townsville, and Cairns, Steve ensures fighters from all corners of the country have the opportunity to develop their craft. An inductee into the Boxing Hall of Fame, he remains the beating heart of Fortitude, sharing stories, offering guidance, and preserving the rich history of Queensland boxing.

Today, Fortitude Boxing is as strong as ever. Its fight nights pack out venues, its fighters continue to shine, and its doors remain open to anyone willing to put in the work.

Fortitude Boxing, where champions are made, and every fighter is family.