MSG Kenneth Adams Jr., ARMY, (Ret)

Kenneth Adams, Jr.

Kenny Adams was a distinguished American boxing trainer, renowned for his remarkable contributions to both amateur and professional boxing. Born on September 25, 1940, in Springfield, Missouri, he began boxing at the young age of 12, eventually competing in over 200 amateur bouts in the flyweight and bantamweight divisions.

Kenny dedicated 30 years to the U.S. Army, serving with distinction in the Vietnam War as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Throughout his military career, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Army's boxing program, placing a strong emphasis on rigorous physical conditioning and technical proficiency. A true innovator, Adams introduced strength training and plyometric exercises to improve boxers’ cardiovascular endurance—an approach that was ahead of its time and helped shape modern American boxing training. His methods brought measurable success, particularly in competitions against international teams, including those from Germany.

Kenny’s coaching career was marked by groundbreaking achievements and historic milestones. He served as assistant coach for the 1984 U.S. Olympic boxing team, which achieved extraordinary success by earning nine gold medals, one silver, and one bronze. In 1988, Kenny made history as the first African-American head coach of the U.S. Olympic boxing team, leading them to an impressive haul of three gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.

After transitioning to professional boxing, Kenny trained an exceptional roster of world champions, including Evander Holyfield, Meldrick Taylor, Pernell Whitaker, Mark Breland, Frank Tate, Henry Tillman, Virgil Hill, Edwin Valero, Vince Phillips, Diego Corrales, Johnny Tapia, and Kennedy McKinney. His innovative training methods, combined with his hallmark discipline and precision, earned him a well-deserved reputation as a master strategist within the boxing community.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Kenny was inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2016, the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017, and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2024.

Kenny passed away on April 7, 2025, at the age of 84, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of boxing. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Claudia Adams, along with a host of beloved family members.

A Celebration of Life Service for MSG Kenneth R.C. Adams, Jr. (Ret.), U.S. Army, age 84, of Las Vegas, NV, will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Sykes Funeral Home, 424 Franklin St., Clarksville, TN 37040. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West, with full military honors.