Gerald Arthur Cooney is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1977 to 1990. He challenged twice for world heavyweight titles in 1982 and 1987. He is widely regarded as one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight history.He beat Champions Ken Norton and S. T. Gordon as well as top contenders Ron Lyle and Jimmy Young. He boasts an impressive 85.7% knockout to win percentage.
Cooney (right) in 2011
Kenneth Howard Norton Sr. was an American professional boxer who competed from 1967 to 1981. He is considered by some to be one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. He was awarded the WBC world heavyweight championship in 1978, after winning a close split decision over Jimmy Young in a title eliminator bout, after which Leon Spinks refused to fight with him.
Norton in 1976
Norton in 1976
On set of Mandingo (1975) with actor Perry King
Norton in 2010