Golden Boy prospect Joel Iriarte: ‘Boxing can empower people of all abilities’

Golden Boy prospect welterweight Joel Iriarte is preparing for his fifth fight in eight months, scheduled for November 2 in Las Vegas as part of the Floyd Schofield-Rene Tellez Giron undercard. 

The 21-year-old Iriarte from Bakersfield, California, is balancing his boxing career with a new venture: Opening Warm Up Athletics, his own gym.

Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) has built a reputation for his relentless pressure in the ring and his busy schedule outside of it. He is now channeling his passion for boxing into his community by launching a program at his gym dedicated to children with autism. This initiative combines fitness and boxing training to help these kids develop physical fitness, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

“I want Warm Up Athletics to be a place for everyone, whether you’re training to fight or just looking to get in shape,” Iriarte said. “Working with kids with autism is something I’m passionate about. Boxing is more than just a sport; it’s a tool that can empower people of all abilities.”

Iriarte aims to be not just a fighter but also an advocate. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “The gym itself is a project I’ve been working on for some time now. It’s my passion for the sport and for giving back to the community. I want to spread my knowledge. I’ve been training as a professional out of my backyard. This is my way of giving back and helping kids with neurodivergent and adaptive needs. It fills my life with balance and purpose.”

Iriarte’s commitment to this cause is personal, as he knows people facing similar challenges. “Many kids today need a little more attention,” Iriarte said. “It’s something I’ve been doing for a while, even before I went professional.”

Iriarte also collaborates with local organizations to enhance his community efforts. “I work with organizations here in town that plan events for the community,” Iriarte said. “The biggest organization I work with is called League of Dreams. They’re a nonprofit that dedicates time to help kids.”

Despite being a 17-time national title winner in the amateurs of USA Boxing, Iriarte finds added motivation in being the flag bearer for his new gym. “I am always super locked in,” he said. “As fighters, we are very self-driven. This project gives me a boost because I have a strong support system that really looks up to me and has high hopes for me. Having them behind me motivates me to perform my best and continue to make them proud and my community proud.”