Gerry Cooney: Fighting Demons Inside and Outside the Ring
And now you got to get restructured and learn how to have a job and set goals and feed your family and support yourself.
Step into the life of Gerry Cooney, a former professional boxer whose journey is as gripping as any title fight. Known for his rapid rise in the boxing world, Cooney clinched an impressive 25-0 record early in his career. But behind the accolades and cheers, he was battling a far more insidious opponent: alcoholism. In this episode of Steppin' Out Radio, Cooney opens up about the dark turns his life took as his boxing career began to wane.
Haunted by the verbal abuse from his alcoholic father, Cooney found himself drowning in a sea of alcohol, trying to numb the pain and prove his worth. His candid reflections reveal a man torn between the highs of professional success and the lows of personal despair. Yet, Cooney's story doesn't end in tragedy. He found a way to climb out of the abyss, not just for himself but for others as well.
He founded Fighters Initiative for Support and Training (FIST), a lifeline for former boxers struggling to find their footing after their careers end. Through FIST, Cooney offers support and direction, helping fighters discover new purposes in life. This episode is more than just a tale of addiction; it's a powerful narrative about resilience and redemption. It's a must-listen for anyone grappling with their own demons or supporting someone who is.
Tune in to hear how Gerry Cooney turned his life around and is now helping others do the same.