Pasadena’s Brick City Boxing Gym Burglarized Twice in Two Months, Community Rallies in Solidarity

Pasadena’s Brick City Boxing gym was burglarized for the second time in two months early Monday morning, with a thief stealing weights and workout mats. According to gym owner Joe Hanks, this comes after a previous burglary in May where the owner’s championship belt and title-fight gloves were stolen.

Hanks revealed that several cherished items, including a championship belt, fight gloves, and a laptop with personal and client information, were stolen in the first burglary on May 13.

In the second incident, weights, yoga mats, and other equipment were taken. 

“Some of these things are irreplaceable,” Hanks said, referring to the sentimental value of his heavyweight championship belt and title fight gloves, trophies of a milestone in his boxing career.

Hanks is a former heavyweight fighter 23 wins and three losses). He moved to Pasadena for a slower-paced life to devote more time to his dream of helping others.

The gym is known for its safe and supportive environment. It serves a diverse community including public service personnel such as police officers but also vulnerable children with disabilities and individuals dealing with social anxiety or bullying.

Hanks said he worries about the emotional impact of the burglaries on the community.

“When they come in and they see the place, they feel like it’s their safe space,” he said, concerned that now clients will “feel as though that’s not safe.”

Hanks expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, with clients and community members contributing to cleanup and restoration efforts. 

He pointed to Sergeant Milton White, a client, who checked in on him and the gym after the second burglary. Others stopped by to clean up broken glass and console. He sees this support as a testament to the unity and resilience of the community.

Hanks remains uncertain about the recovery of the stolen items.  Through this adversity, however, he remains committed to the values of perseverance and community.

“I just show them the same things I preach. I get knocked down, we get back up, we keep fighting.”