Big George’s Boxing Gym
About
Big George's Boxing Gym offers comprehensive training in both MMA and boxing disciplines, led by experienced coaches who create a professional yet welcoming environment. Head Coach George Chamberlain, a USA Boxing Certified Level III Coach and former professional heavyweight boxer, brings elite-level expertise alongside BJJ Instructor Danny, a two-time Midwest BJJ Champion who teaches 10th Planet-style jiu-jitsu. The facility itself is large and well-equipped, constantly expanding to meet diverse training needs while maintaining affordable pricing that members appreciate.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the gym's professional yet welcoming atmosphere, describing it as a transformative space where they've grown as both fighters and people. They highlight the expertise of coaches like George and Danny, the family-like environment that welcomes all backgrounds, and the well-equipped facility that caters to all skill levels. Specific compliments include the positive mindset cultivated throughout the gym, the absence of toxic culture found elsewhere, and coaches who go above and beyond for students. Several reviewers mention wishing they had similar gyms in their hometowns, with one even joking about moving to Iowa City to continue training there.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Meribeth Schmidt
a year ago
Went for a kids class and really appreciated the expertise, professionalism and talent of all the staff!
Keegan Witbeck
3 years ago
Best boxing club in Johnson County, IA! All the coaches have much experience of many styles! They are the best priced and will go out of their way to make sure the students are taken care of and their best interest is in mind! In 6 years I have been with George and his Club, i have grown as a person and fighter! 10/10 recommend!
brian
a year ago
A great gym for all ages and skill levels. Even greater manager/owner and the training environment is world class!
Abdulmoneim Elhussain
6 years ago
This is where you discover something new about yourself that will positively apply to all aspects of your life, for a long time. Brotherhood and an actual family environment.
U G
2 years ago
I had the honor of working with George. And coming from Seattle I gotta say I was REALLY impressed. The gym itself is large and has all the equipment you could ever ask for. Its constantly expanding into different fields. George harbors a positive environment where even his students and teachers below him follow positive mindsets. I felt welcomed. I felt listened to. They encouraged people of different backgrounds to be there. I really wish we had gyms like this in Seattle. It's hard to find places like this. Not to mention has the influence of the college and they can help connect you to the community of wrestling and boxing. I give this place a solid 5 stars. And it really deserves all 5. Come on in to George's Boxing Gym. You will get something out of it whether your new or have some experience. What's most impressive was the diversity in the gym was solid. I've been to toxic gyms, and this was not one of them. I really wish I had a gym like this at home. It almost makes me want to move to Iowa city xD
Contact
1604 Sycamore St, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
George Chamberlain
Head Coach
USA Boxing Certified Level III Coach, former professional heavyweight boxer, president of NCBA
10+ years pro boxing experience worldwide. Trains pro athletes, collegiate champions, and corners fighters in boxing, MMA, and kickboxing. Works with Iowa Athletic Commission.
Danny
BJJ Instructor
Two-time Midwest BJJ Champion, 10th Planet-style coach
Over 15 years gi and no-gi experience. Trained with top-tier pros like Eddie Bravo. Integrates judo, sambo, striking, and wrestling for well-rounded grappling.