Nicknamed “Ice,” Griffin’s pro career took off after defeating James Toney twice -once in 1995 for the vacant IBF Intercontinental Light Heavyweight title and again in 1996. The second victory earned him a lucrative bout against WBC Champion Roy Jones Jr. which eventually resulted in a disqualification win over the undefeated champion. Over the course of his career, Griffin compiled a respectable resume with a record summary of 51-8, which included 30 defeats by knockout. Triumphs over big-name fighters like Toney, and Jones Jr. along with contenders Ka-Dy, Ray Lathon, Randall Yonger, Derrick Harmon and George Khalid Jones, have helped him transition from professional fighter to world class trainer where he is focused on bringing the sport of boxing back to a state of prominence in Chicago.
In 2017, Griffin brought back Windy City Boxing Club to Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood where he trains boxers for competition as well as everyday people. With this new location, it was important for him to make an impact on kids in his community in a positive way. He has a partnership with Chicago Park District’s “After School Matters” program and is chosen year after year to host The Art of Boxing program for youth from various parts of the south side of Chicago including the Bridgeport and Pilsen neighborhoods. Griffin also provides scholarships to the Windy City Youth Foundation, an organization that works with local schools to see which students may most benefit from his programs that are designed to teach boxing…not fighting. “I want to help these kids develop skills while learning to overcome diversity and become self-confident through the sport of boxing,” explains Griffin. “My goal is to prepare today’s youth to compete in all areas of life…from the boxing ring to continued education and becoming a productive member of society.”
The Ice Life is available at www.TheIceLifeBook.com and Amazon.