ROCHESTER, N.Y. — An amateur boxer from Rochester is now a two times golden gloves champion. Algeria Johnson, 22, recently won the title in Detroit, after winning in 2023 in Philadelphia.

What You Need To Know

  • Rochester's 22-year-old Algeria Johnson won Golden Gloves titles in 2023 and 2024

  •  Johnson took up boxing at the age of 15 and hopes to inspire other young girls 

  • She is set to begin work as a sparring partner for the U.S. women’s Olympic boxing team

Johnson returned to her home gym in Rochester to reset after her win. It’s something she likes to do after every tournament. 

When she was younger, Johnson said she had a lot of pent-up anger in her. At 15, she took up boxing as a way to release it and express herself. 

In a male dominated sport, Johnson hopes she inspires other young girls and shows them it doesn’t matter where you came from. 

"You can come from any background. You can come from a rough background and succeed and be successful," said Johnson. "You just have to have that mindset where nothing can stop you if you believe in yourself."

Starting in July, Johnson will start working as a sparring partner for the U.S. women’s Olympic boxing team. She’s excited to get the chance to train with the best of best Johnson says.