FORT MYERS, Fla. — Jabari Irons, a man who once faced homelessness, has emerged as a celebrated four-time champion in the world of wrestling throughout the globe.
Watch Fort Myers Community Correspondent Miyoshi Price's report
As your community correspondent, Miyoshi Price, I had the opportunity to meet Irons at the Quality Life Center, where he shared his mission of using wrestling to open doors for the next generation.
Irons invited me to his gym in Cape Coral to discuss his remarkable life and achievements.
He says that the atmosphere was electric as he reflected on his recent championship win in 2024, crediting his success to his faith and determination. He continued to talk about what it took to get there as he reminisced about where it all began.
"When I first got my first championship, it was everything I had hoped for," he said. "It was everything that I prepared for as well."
Despite the challenges he faced, including a troubled upbringing and homelessness, Irons found solace and strength through wrestling.
"You know, as far as homelessness, kind of a broken household, and wrestling was what helped me thrive," Irons shared.
His accolades include victories at prestigious events, such as the 2024 US Beach Open, the 2023 Barbados Open, and a win at the 184-pound Collegiate National Championships in 2019. He expressed his motivation following a setback:
"I was denied a state championship in Florida in 2013, and it put a desire in my heart to be a champion," Irons revealed.
Irons chose to pursue wrestling over a full-ride football scholarship demonstrating his commitment to the sport.
"I had that burning desire just kept eating at me every single day, and I never stopped," he noted. "I always knew I could become a champion."
Now, Irons is dedicated to transforming the lives of locals in Southwest Florida through his Elite Wrestling Club called Irons Elite, offering classes in Cape Coral and Fort Myers for participants of all ages.
One student, Claire O'Donnell, commented on the impact of his coaching:
"He teaches me how to stay calm in very stressful situations, just kind of how I would like to live my life." O'Donnell shared her excitement with friends at Canterbury School, saying, "You're going to Jabari Irons? I was like, yeah. They're like, that's so cool."
In addition to his wrestling achievements, Irons is also an author. He released a book titled When Life Tries to Pin You Down, detailing his challenging journey and overcoming various trials.
O'Donnell reflected on his story, stating, "This is crazy, like he went from the lowest of lows to the highest of highs, and it was incredible."
Irons has a heartfelt mission to help youth navigate their emotions and life challenges. He summed up his gratitude and determination, saying, "If it wasn't for wrestling, I don't know where I would be."
