Michael Corleone
Kayo Boxing
Michael Corleone
President, Owner & Head Coach
Michael Corleone is the President, Owner, and Head Coach at Kayo Boxing. Bringing over 30 years of professional boxing experience and a lifetime of sport heritage to the gym, Coach Mike is an award-winning athlete and specialized instructor. He focuses on boxing fundamentals, athletic conditioning, and specialized adaptive training programs. Known for his patience, dedication, and individual-focused instruction, he guides members of all skill levels toward achieving sustainable lifestyle transformations, improved fitness, and personal growth.
Education
Michael Corleone earned his expertise in physical conditioning and boxing technique inside the gym and ring, learning directly through decades of hands-on training and mentorship under seasoned boxing figures.
His technical preparation encompasses boxing fundamentals, athletic recovery, protective equipment application, and adaptive coaching strategies. This practical background ensures his coaching remains rooted in proven physical mechanics, safety, and individual progress.
Previous Experience/History
Before establishing Kayo Boxing, Michael built an extensive career in competitive athletics. He began boxing at age 21, making his fight debut in 1992, and went on to compete professionally as a southpaw for over 25 years. Throughout his fighting career, he appeared on major card undercards—including events featuring heavyweights like George Foreman—and served as a key sparring partner for world champions such as Arturo Gatti and Hector "Macho" Camacho.
Following his retirement from active competition in 2008, Michael transitioned into full-time coaching. He established Kayo Boxing in 2004, later opening its dedicated West Hempstead facility in 2018 to serve the community.
Highlights of Current Work
As Head Coach at Kayo Boxing, Michael leads daily workouts, oversees adaptive fitness programs, and creates an supportive environment for gym members:
- Type 2 Diabetes Management: Assisting clients in improving metabolic health and physical fitness to help reduce or eliminate reliance on insulin under medical supervision.
- Weight Loss & Health Optimization: Constructing boxing and fitness programs that promote cardiovascular endurance and long-term weight management.
- Rehabilitation & Recovery Support: Helping individuals facing drug, alcohol, or personal challenges build structured, healthy habits through athletic discipline.
- Special Needs & Adaptive Coaching: Utilizing patient, step-by-step instruction to help individuals with traumatic brain injuries and special needs improve motor functions and balance.
Areas of Expertise
Michael’s multi-decade involvement in athletics has established core expertise across several areas:
- Professional Boxing & Technical Skill: Over 30 years of ring experience, mastering boxing technique, footwork, defense, and mitt work.
- Special Needs & Adaptive Training: Tailoring boxing exercises to help clients recovering from severe neurological or physical injuries regain mobility.
- Health & Fitness Conditioning: Structuring high-energy workouts that aid in fat loss and chronic condition management.
- Mentorship & Community Leadership: Using boxing as a constructive tool to mentor youth and adults toward stable lifestyles.
Credentials/Certifications
Michael’s qualifications as a Head Coach stem from decades of competition and coaching experience:
- Retired Professional Boxer: Multi-decade competitive record in professional boxing and kickboxing.
- Gym Owner & Operator: Direct leadership over programming, trainer development, and facility safety at Kayo Boxing.
- Adaptive Fitness Specialist: Extensive practical application in motor skill development for special needs and neuro-rehabilitation clients.
Publications/Awards
Throughout his career in sports and coaching, Michael Corleone has received several honors:
- IBO Junior Welterweight Intercontinental Champion: Titleholder during his active professional fighting career.
- Media & Sports Feature: Featured on ESPN SportsCenter social media and regional press for his adaptive training work with traumatic brain injury survivors.
- Community Advocate: Recognized for his community outreach and fitness programs across Long Island.
Interests/Fun Facts
Outside of training at the gym, Michael values simple routines and spending quality time with his family. His approach on the gym floor mirrors his personal values of treats every member like family.
Get Started with Michael at Kayo Boxing
To get started with Michael Corleone and his team, give us a call today. We look forward to showing you the Kayo Boxing difference!





