Riverside Stronger is built around one priority. Delivering quality boxing instruction in a serious training environment. Every session is focused on helping members develop proper technique, build confidence, and make real progress, regardless of their experience level.
Training is structured but not rushed. Members are encouraged to stay and ask questions and continue improving. Whether you’re working mitts, technique, building strength, sparring, or conditioning, you’ll receive coaching that works on long-term development, not just getting through a workout.
Show up, work hard, support your teammates, and get better every day. If you’re committed to improving, you’ll fit right in.
Born and raised in Riverside, Coach Ruben has nearly a decade of experience developing boxers, building competitive programs, and helping athletes reach the next level.
In 2018, he began coaching out of a small church gym with a group starting with just 6 members. Within a short time, that group grew to more than 20 athletes. Many entered the gym with no boxing experience, but within six months, Ruben had developed several of them from complete beginners into active amateur competitors.
Since then, Ruben has helped produce seven state champions, worked professional corners, and assisted with professional fight camps. He also developed one of his athletes from a complete novice into an undefeated professional boxer, currently holding a record of 5-0 with three knockouts.
In addition to boxing instruction, Ruben creates boxing specific strength and conditioning programs, individual training plans, and nutrition programs.
Riverside has always been Ruben’s home, and his goal is to continue developing disciplined fighters and bringing high quality boxing instruction to his community.
Coach Hector began boxing under Coach Ruben at 12 years old with no previous experience. Within six months, he had his first amateur fight and went on to build a 15-1 amateur record. He gained valuable experience training and sparring alongside professional fighters, including world champion Ricardo Sandoval. Hector turned professional at 18 and currently holds an undefeated record of 5-0 with three knockouts.
Coach Roman has more than 20 years of experience in boxing. He began training at 11 years old, competed, and transitioned into coaching at 21.
Throughout his career, Roman has worked with amateur and professional fighters, children, adults, and complete beginners. He brings decades of experience, patience, and a strong understanding of boxing fundamentals to the Riverside Stronger coaching team.
Highlander Gloves, representing University of California, Riverside, is a proven force in collegiate boxing. Competing at the highest level in major tournaments around the US, the team has produced national champions and consistently ranks among the top programs in the country.
Competing within the United States Intercollegiate Boxing Association, Highlander Gloves has repeatedly proven itself on the national stage. At the most recent USIBA National Championships, the team delivered a standout performance—capturing 1st place in the men’s division and 2nd in the women’s, with 16 of 20 fighters earning victories and multiple national champions crowned. These results reflect not just talent, but a system that consistently develops athletes capable of performing.
UCR’s Highlander Gloves is led and trained by Coach Israel Salgado. For any personal training inquires please reach out via phone, instagram, or the contact us page.
With over 20 years of experience, Gus brings a rare specialization in corrective movement and functional performance training to Riverside Stronger. A skill set that goes far beyond basic personal training. His approach blends strength development with mobility restoration and movement correction, helping clients not only perform better, but move and feel better long-term.
Gus works with youth (8+), adults, seniors, athletes, and individuals with disabilities, designing intelligent programs that prioritize durability, balance, and real-world strength. He has also trained alongside world champion boxers such as Ricardo Sandoval, bringing elite-level insight to every session.
For any inquires please reach out via phone, instagram, or the contact us page.