The turmoil that took place Monday in Baltimore obviously affected many in and around the city, including the Beltway Boxing Community.
The UMAR boxing gym in Baltimore is located right in the area where the epicenter of much of the turmoil took place, right on West North Avenue. No word on whether the gym suffered any issues during this tragic situation.
Meanwhile in the Fells Point section of the city, Jake Smith, a native of Baltimore who owns the Baltimore Boxing and Fitness Gym was very adamant in a published statement.
“In my forty-plus years in Baltimore, this is the worst thing I’ve ever seen,” said Smith, whose promotional efforts have helped many local organizations through raffles and donations. “We are all aware that there are issues with police brutality throughout the country and while I am extremely disappointed with the lack of prosecution following specific incidents, rioting only makes everything worse.
"I truly understand that emotions are at all-time highs in Baltimore and people want their voices to be heard but this is not the way to do it. Having worked with people from all walks of life, I wholeheartedly respect everybody’s point of view but I am pleading with the community as a whole to schedule peaceful and civilized meetings with city officials. This is the only way for everybody to get their thoughts and opinions out while hearing what the other side has to say. Riots are only going to tear apart and create further distance between police and citizens in this great city. I pray that everything calms down quickly and a resolution is met.”
BATB shares that prayer.
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