A world champion boxer who is used to battling blazes out of the ring is getting ready to open his own boxing gym. 

Firefighter Declan McAvoy, 32, used to coach others from his garage in Lowestoft.

But this Sunday, he will be opening his own boxing gym, called The Box, with two-time Lowestoft Olympian for Team GB, Charley Davison, joining to cut the ribbon. 

Mr McAvoy said Davison has long been an inspiration of his. 

He said: "What she does is incredible, and especially being a mother of three - that's huge."

Mr McAvoy is a champion in his own right after claiming gold in boxing at the World Firefighter Games in Portugal in 2022.

With the skills gained in training for his victory and his ethos to give back, Mr McAvoy hopes to change the stereotypes associated with boxing and make it a sport for everyone.

He said: "It doesn't have to be a working man's sport. I want this gym to be about community and a place where people feel safe, especially women."

Declan McAvoy said everyone at the business park has been very helpful, especially Lavish Life Competitions and MS Oaks.Declan McAvoy said everyone at the business park has been very helpful, especially Lavish Life Competitions and MS Oaks. (Image: Newsquest)
Mr McAvoy and his wife, Millie, recently became parents to a baby girl, Agatha, and Mr McAvoy has plans for the gym to offer female-only classes led by female coaches. 

He said: "Gyms can be really intimidating but we're making this gym different.

"I want it to be a second home for women so they can train safely and equip themselves with the confidence for any circumstance."

"Now that I've got a daughter, I feel even more passionate about this." 

Mr McAvoy said his wife has also caught the boxing bug and will be a director with him in the business. 

Rhys Taylor will be one of the head coaches at The Box, as well as Charlie McGarrell who will be the head coach for women.Rhys Taylor is one of the head coaches at The Box, as well as Charlie McGarrell who will be the head coach for women. (Image: Newsquest)
Others who will help with training at the gym include Rhys Taylor, 21, and his partner, Charlie McGarrell.

Mr Taylor said: "I've known Declan since we worked at Hustle together, in Norwich. His vision for this place is brilliant. 

"Boxing really saves lives and I think we're all excited to share that from Sunday."

Sunday's opening will run from 11am to 3pm at Mobbs Way Business Park in Lowestoft and is free to attend.