"Knock Out Barriers. Build Stronger Lives."

Al Franco

Head Coach Al Franco is a highly respected boxing coach, mentor and the primary driving force behind Warzone Boxing Club and the ABY Foundation. With nearly three decades of coaching experience, Coach Franco began his own boxing journey at age 8 and later transitioned to coaching after a successful career that included turning around a professional boxer's career from a record of 3-4 to 16-4 (including a state title). He founded Warzone Boxing Club in 1997 (with the Warzone brand established in 2002), building it into one of the most prominent gyms in California. Under his leadership, the club has produced 19 amateur champions (at National, International, and World levels) and several professional with 3 becoming champions, earning global recognition for developing elite talent while serving beginners, fitness enthusiasts, and community members in Upland, Rialto, and beyond.

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Coach Franco's family plays a central role in the gym's success and the foundation's work. His sons, Michael Franco (also known as Mike Franco) and Daniel Franco (known as Daniel "Twitch" Franco), have been instrumental in the development and day-to-day operations of the ABY Foundation. Both are accomplished boxers in their own right—successful as amateurs and professionals—with Daniel achieving notable titles including former IBF and USBA Featherweight Champion, and Mike boasting a strong professional record (including 19 wins, 1 loss and 12 KOs) and the WBC Intercontinental title. They actively contribute as coaches at Warzone Boxing Club and help shape the foundation's programs, bringing their expertise, passion, and firsthand experience to support its mission.

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In 2015, Coach Franco established the ABY Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to using the power of boxing and fitness to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. The foundation focuses on three core groups:

• Individuals affected by Parkinson's disease, offering non-contact boxing programs to support balance, mobility, coordination, strength, and overall quality of life.

• Veterans dealing with PTSD, providing free gym access, complimentary classes, and a supportive brotherhood environment to help rebuild mental resilience, reduce stress, and restore camaraderie.

• Children struggling with obesity and diabetes (particularly under 12), through free boxing and fitness sessions that promote safe weight loss, healthy habits, discipline, and confidence—plus covering costs for participation in other organized sports like football, baseball, and jiu-jitsu to encourage well-rounded active lifestyles.

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Coach Franco's passion, amplified by his sons' involvement, extends far beyond the ring. His work with the ABY Foundation reflects a deep family commitment to community service, accessibility, and empowerment—ensuring programs are free, inclusive, and tailored to those who need them most. Through expert coaching, unwavering dedication, and a family-oriented approach, the Franco family has touched countless lives, helping people improve physical health, mental well-being, self-defense skills, and self-esteem.

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As the founder and head coach, Al Franco continues to lead by example, with Michael and Daniel playing key roles in inspiring fighters, families, and future generations at Warzone Boxing Club while expanding the ABY Foundation's impact in the Inland Empire, Arizona, and potentially beyond.

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For more information or to support the ABY Foundation's mission, call (928) 577-7883 or Warzone Boxing Club directly at (909) 477-1016.