Ready to rumble: New gym concept hopes to be a contender

Boxing is back. 

In the fitness world, where finding and capitalizing on the latest and greatest trends is key, boxing is having a moment. The latest iteration: Dan Page, a former Army combat engineer who enjoyed a 20-year career in corporate America before seeking entrepreneurial adventures, recently opened a Mayweather Boxing + Fitness gym franchised location in St. Petersburg. 

“It’s a fantastic workout,” says Page. “When I took a class at the flagship gym in Los Angeles, I was just blown away. They took Floyd’s regimen that has kept him at the top for 20 years and distilled it down for people like you and me.”

Page held a soft opening Jan. 11 and quickly signed up nearly 300 members. He sought another 50 in February, and aims to top out at around 600 members. An unlimited membership costs $129 per month and includes instructor-led classes as well as in-person and virtual reality boxing and kickboxing sessions. Members can also come in on their own time, outside of the class sessions, and work out independently.

The franchise fee is $30,000. Page declines to disclose the total startup cost for the gym, but says it can range from $350,000 to $600,00 depending on the location. He has plans for a second Mayweather Boxing + Fitness facility, in Largo, and says Mayweather might show up for the grand opening in April. 

For Page, who wanted to get back into fighting shape after leaving his office job, Mayweather’s program was a champion. 

“The strength and stamina you need to go 12 rounds in boxing is unparalleled in sports. That’s indisputable,” he says. “You could be just starting on your fitness journey or be a top athlete, but either way, this workout is mixed enough that you will continually be challenged and increase your fitness level.”