“When I get finished with fighting, I hope they ask the same questions. It's not my purpose to answer them. Boxing is the art of self-defense. I knock 'em out the first chance I get.”

American former professional boxer

Gerry Cooney is an American former professional boxer who fought from 1977 to 1990. He is best known for challenging for the world heavyweight title twice, in 1982 and 1987, and for the power that made him widely regarded as one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight history. During his career, Cooney recorded notable wins over Ken Norton, S. T. Gordon, Ron Lyle, and Jimmy Young, all late in their careers. His record also reflects an 85.7% knockout to win percentage, a measure that matches his reputation as a heavy-handed fighter.