INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — When you walk inside Mike Epp’s Right Jab Boxing Gym, you may notice murals of famous fighters and boxing memorabilia lining the walls.

One of those fighters featured is legendary “Iron Mike” Mike Tyson, who is teaming up with the Indianapolis-raised comedian on Friday evening to host Epps’ “Gloves Up, Violence Down” event.

The event is a precursor to Epps’ 3rd annual Community Festival, which will bring music, comedy, and community spirit to Epps’ hometown.

Epps says the private anti-violence workshop is centered on boxing, discipline, and positive decision-making.

The workshop will serve youth and young adults ages 12 – 21 interested in boxing. Participating youth groups have been asked to bring groups of 10 young people, accompanied by an adult youth leader.

Tyson says he has pride in being in Indy to give back.

“I’m just happy to be here and give back to the community, cause that’s what it’s all about,” Tyson said. “To have pride within yourself, when you feel better, you do better, and you want to have some courage and pride and do the right thing for yourself, it’s good to have self-love.”

Epps says he is thrilled to have his buddy Iron Mike join him this evening.

“It’s such a pleasure to have my brother, Mike Tyson, in town. This city means a lot to Mike, and we just want to show people that, ‘Guess what? People care about us.’”

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