UBX Brings Boxing Concept to Japan, Eyes More Growth
UBX Boxing + Strength says it will open a minimum of 145 locations in Japan over the next ten years
What happens when a four-time world champion boxer and a fitness and tech entrepreneur launch a unique fitness boxing concept? Rapid global expansion.
UBX Boxing + Strength has just launched its signature boxing concept in Japan with three locations in Tokyo, the seventh global entry for the brand — and its just getting started. The boxing concept plans to have over 500 global gyms by 2033, adding to its 100-plus locations already open in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, the U.K. and the U.S.
The brand credits its impressive growth to a combination of direct entry from its HQ team in Australia and its strategic master franchise partnerships with Prova Group and Empowered Brands, which partnered with UBX to open 250 gyms across the U.K. and the Republic of Ireland within the next five years in a deal worth £50M.
With the assistance of Prova Group, UBX says it will open a minimum of 145 locations in Japan over the next ten years, adding to its clubs in Kagurazaka, Kodemmacho and Omori.
Tim West, UBX co-founder and managing director, remarked that Japan is an exciting market for the brand because of its strong interest in boxing, affinity for martial arts and its list of world champions such as former pound-for-pound top-ranked boxer Naoya Inoue.
“As seen globally, consumer interest and participation often follows professional success in sport,” said West, who co-founded UBX in 2016 alongside world champion boxer Danny Green.
Earlier this summer, UBX launched its first U.S. location, in Larchmont, New York, which has attracted over 200 members and over 2,400 visits since opening its doors. The N.Y. location kicked off UBX’s plans in the U.S., with the brand intending to first focus on the Tri-State area. Across the pond, the boxing brand now has four locations in the U.K. and Ireland, with over 200 more in development.
In addition to its global expansion, UBX has signed a partnership deal with Adidas Combat Sports to co-brand and collaborate on product design, marketing and distribution of boxing gloves, apparel, uniforms and equipment.
“Our mission is to give everyone the opportunity to train like a boxer without stepping into the ring,” West said. “We want to create the largest boxing community worldwide…Boxing is experiencing a new golden era, and demand follows public interest.”
