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Connecticut Boxing Community Mourns Loss of Longtime Coach Brian Clark
Clark, owner of Ring One Boxing in New Haven, trained champions like Chad Dawson and Tramaine Williams
Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:39pm
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The Connecticut boxing community is mourning the loss of Brian Clark, the owner and coach of Ring One Boxing in New Haven, who passed away this weekend at the age of 67 after battling health issues. Clark had trained countless kids in the Elm City for decades, including three-time world champion Chad Dawson and world title contender Tramaine Williams, who praised Clark's impact on their lives both inside and outside the ring.
Why it matters
Brian Clark's dedication to training young boxers in the New Haven community, regardless of their background, made him a beloved figure who helped shape the lives of many aspiring champions. His passing is a significant loss for the local boxing scene and highlights the important role that community-based gyms and coaches can play in providing opportunities for underserved youth.
The details
For over 30 years, Clark owned and operated Ring One Boxing in New Haven, where he trained countless young boxers, including Chad Dawson and Tramaine Williams, who went on to achieve professional success in the sport. Dawson and Williams both credited Clark not just for his boxing expertise, but for the life lessons and mentorship he provided, helping them become better people as well as fighters.
- Brian Clark passed away this past weekend at the age of 67.
- A gathering to honor Clark's life is planned for this Friday outside the Ring One Boxing gym.
The players
Brian Clark
The owner and coach of Ring One Boxing in New Haven, Connecticut, who dedicated over 30 years of his life to training young boxers in the community.
Chad Dawson
A three-time world champion boxer who was trained by Brian Clark at Ring One Boxing.
Tramaine Williams
A world title contender boxer who was trained by Brian Clark at Ring One Boxing.
What they’re saying
“'You got a white guy who moved into a predominantly Black neighborhood, and who took on the challenge of getting kids in the gym, training them, teaching them. Not just about boxing, but about life, too.'”
— Chad Dawson
“'I'd rather you be a good person than a great fighter any day,' Williams said, recounting advice Clark gave him. 'So I focus on being a good person rather than a great fighter.'”
— Tramaine Williams
What’s next
A gathering to honor Brian Clark's life is planned for this Friday outside the Ring One Boxing gym in New Haven.
The takeaway
Brian Clark's legacy as a dedicated coach who transformed the lives of young boxers in the New Haven community serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that community-based sports programs and mentors can have, especially for underserved youth.
