Gerry Cooney.
American heavyweight Gerry "Gentleman" Cooney who was considered one of the best heavyweights during the 70?s and 80?s has confirmed his attendance at the 49th WBC Annual Convention from December 11 to December 17 in Las Vegas Nevada.
Cooney was one of the greatest attractions in boxing and was regarded as "The Great White Hope" when he faced WBC heavyweight champion Larry Holmes on June 11, 1982. Cooney lost by a 13th round TKO in a close fight during which Cooney was deducted 3 points for low blows by referee Mills Lane.
Cooney retired after back-to-back losses by a 2nd round TKO to former heavyweight champion George Foreman in a ten round bout on January 15, 1990 and by a 5th round TKO in a title fight against Leon Spinks on June 15, 1987 after being dropped twice in the round. Both fights were held at the Convention Center in Atlantic City where Cooney was a big name.
Cooney won some big fights impressively. He scored a 1st round TKO over former champion Ken Norton on May 11, 1981 after earlier scoring a 1st round knockout of former title challenger Ron Lyle who had lost to Muhammad Ali by an 11th round TKO on May 16, 1975.
Cooney also won by a 4th round TKO over another Ali victim, Ron Lyle who went the 15 round distance with Ali before droipping a unanimous decision on April 30, 1976.
Cooney is still a fan favorite due to his great name in the sport, strong personality and great resume.
Of Irish blood, the 6'6" Cooney was born in New York and when he hung up his gloves had a record of 28-3 with 24 knockouts.
The WBC reported that Cooney will be in the convention, always willing to talk with the fans about not just his career but also what he thinks of current champions.
Comments
Share your thoughts on the above article by Ronnie Nathanielsz.