Dino Guilmette: The Rhode Island Entrepreneur’s Journey from Boxing Ring to Business Success

November 25, 2025 - By Aliza

Early Life and Educational Foundation

Dino Guilmette was born on August 11, 1978, in Cranston, Rhode Island, into a large, close-knit family. As one of ten children, he learned the values of resilience and hard work from a young age, which would become cornerstones of his character.

His early life was a blend of athletics and academics. Guilmette played college football at the University of Florida before shifting his focus to business. He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of Rhode Island in 2000, equipping himself with the knowledge that would later fuel his entrepreneurial ambitions.

The Boxing Chapter

Before making a name for himself in the business world, Dino Guilmette stepped into the boxing ring. Competing as an amateur in Rhode Island, he earned the nickname “The Ghost” for his elusive and strategic fighting style.

He trained at the respected Balletto’s Gym in Providence and participated in local events, including the “Brawl For It All” in 2017. Though he never pursued a professional boxing career, the discipline and mental toughness he gained from the sport proved invaluable in his later endeavors.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Success

Guilmette’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1997 when he opened his first bar in Rhode Island. This venture into the hospitality industry marked the start of a long career as a self-employed businessman. He developed a reputation for his hands-on approach and quiet determination.

His path was not without challenges, as he faced financial setbacks, including bankruptcies in 2005 and 2014. However, Guilmette demonstrated remarkable resilience, rebuilding his ventures and solidifying his place in the local business community. Today, his estimated net worth ranges from $1 million to $5 million, a testament to his perseverance.

Relationship with Shayanna Jenkins

Dino Guilmette’s life entered the public spotlight in 2017 when he began a relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, the former fiancée of the late NFL star Aaron Hernandez. The two were introduced by mutual friends and connected during a challenging time in Jenkins’ life.

Their relationship marked a new chapter for both, as they formed a blended family. Guilmette’s family was supportive, with his father publicly expressing his admiration for Jenkins and his happiness for the couple.

Family Life and Fatherhood

Family is a central part of Dino Guilmette’s life. He is a dedicated father to three children: a daughter, Mia, from a previous relationship; a daughter, Giselle, born with Shayanna Jenkins in June 2018; and his stepdaughter, Avielle, who is Shayanna’s daughter with Aaron Hernandez.

Despite the public interest in his personal life, Guilmette prioritizes his family’s privacy. He focuses on providing a stable and loving environment, shielding his children from the media scrutiny that often surrounds his family.

Navigating Public Attention and Challenges

Throughout his life, Guilmette has navigated a complex public image. He briefly explored modeling between 2002 and 2003, but his life has also been marked by legal challenges, both from his youth and in more recent years.

Despite the controversies and allegations that have followed him, he maintains a low profile. He handles the public attention with a quiet dignity, choosing to focus on his business and family responsibilities rather than engaging with the media.

Current Life and Future Outlook

Today, Dino Guilmette continues to operate his businesses in Rhode Island while leading a private, family-oriented life. The lessons of discipline and perseverance learned in the boxing ring continue to guide him as an entrepreneur and a father.

His story is one of resilience, demonstrating an ability to overcome adversity and build an authentic life on his own terms. His legacy is that of a man who has weathered storms, both personal and public, to find success and stability.

Aliza

I’m Aliza, the founder of Urdu Novel Bank. I built this site because I love Urdu stories and want everyone to enjoy them. As an Urdu literature lover, I choose the best novels to share with you. Here you can find free Urdu novels in romance, mystery, thriller and more. Read online or download PDF chapters without signing up. I update the library often so you’ll always have new tales to explore. My goal is to bring Urdu literature to readers around the world.