NYC Gym Cleaner Rises to Salas' Corner

Henry DeLeon's unexpected journey from sweeping floors to training world champions

Mar. 15, 2026 at 12:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Henry DeLeon never planned on becoming a boxing trainer, but through hard work and opportunity, he has risen from cleaning floors at a New York City gym to becoming an assistant trainer at Salas Boxing Academy in Las Vegas, working under legendary coach Ismael Salas. DeLeon's story is one of determination and seizing unexpected chances, as he went from a casual gym-goer to working the corners of world champions.

Why it matters

DeLeon's journey showcases the unconventional paths one can take in the sport of boxing, where passion and persistence can lead to unexpected success. His story inspires others who may be looking to break into the sport, demonstrating that opportunities can arise even for those without a traditional background in training fighters.

The details

DeLeon started training at Mendez Boxing Gym in Manhattan, simply wanting to work out on Saturdays. He asked the gym's founder, Francisco Mendez, if he could clean the gym in exchange for more training time. This led to DeLeon assisting coaches, teaching fitness classes, and eventually working with amateur and professional fighters. During the COVID-19 pandemic, DeLeon was given the chance to train a pro fighter, which rewired his ambition. A friend training with Ismael Salas in Las Vegas invited DeLeon to shadow the renowned coach, and what was supposed to be a one-month stint turned into over two years of DeLeon working under Salas' tutelage.

  • DeLeon started training at Mendez Boxing Gym in Manhattan around 2 weeks before speaking to the gym's founder.
  • DeLeon began working at Mendez Gym around 2 years ago.
  • DeLeon has been working at Salas Boxing Academy in Las Vegas for over 2 years.

The players

Henry DeLeon

A 30-year-old boxing trainer who went from cleaning floors at a New York City gym to becoming an assistant trainer at Salas Boxing Academy in Las Vegas, working under legendary coach Ismael Salas.

Francisco Mendez

The founder of Mendez Boxing Gym in Manhattan, where DeLeon started his journey in the sport.

Ismael Salas

A legendary Cuban boxing coach who has trained numerous world champions, and is currently mentoring DeLeon at Salas Boxing Academy in Las Vegas.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was supposed to be just for a month. That month became two months, three months, six months. Next thing I know, I'm out here for more than two years and counting.”

— Henry DeLeon (BoxingInsider.com)

“Over time, he's grown to trust and understand that I do have a pretty good knowledge of what I'm talking about when working the corner.”

— Henry DeLeon (BoxingInsider.com)

“Coming from someone like him, someone that I've idolized in the boxing world — for him to give me a compliment like that, I think that speaks a lot. That's what I was missing in New York. I didn't have someone I respected enough, who had accomplished enough in the sport, to give you that kind of validation.”

— Henry DeLeon (BoxingInsider.com)

What’s next

DeLeon plans to continue his training under Ismael Salas, with the ultimate goal of becoming one of the best boxing coaches to come out of New York City.

The takeaway

DeLeon's story demonstrates that passion, persistence, and seizing unexpected opportunities can lead to remarkable success in the sport of boxing, even for those without a traditional background. His journey from gym cleaner to working alongside a legendary coach inspires others to pursue their dreams in the sport.