The story revolves around the life of boxer Tommy Morrison, also known as the "White Beast", who had great talent, skill, and power in the ring, drawing comparisons to Mike Tyson. He rose to fame after being discovered by Sylvester Stallone, who cast him in the fifth installment of the Rocky film series. Morrison's success led to wealth and fame, but he fell into a life of excesses and vices, which ultimately led to his downfall.
Despite winning the IBC title and having 49 victories, 44 of which were by knockouts, Morrison's career was cut short when he tested positive for HIV. After attempting to falsify test results to continue boxing, he eventually retired and passed away at the age of 44 due to complications from the disease.
The story highlights the importance of discipline and good guidance in achieving success, and how a life of excesses and poor choices can lead to a fatal reality.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Tommy Morrison was a boxer known as the "White Beast" due to his similarity to Mike Tyson.
2. Tommy Morrison's older brother was a boxer and influenced him to take up the sport.
3. Tommy Morrison started boxing professionally after graduating from high school in 1988.
4. In 1989, Morrison had 19 victories and 15 knockouts, earning him comparisons to Mike Tyson.
5. A fight between Morrison and Tyson was planned, but Tyson was in prison at the time.
6. Morrison was cast in the fifth installment of the Rocky film series, playing a character named Tommy Gunn.
7. Morrison's participation in the film led to more fame and wealth, which he struggled to handle.
8. Morrison's boxing career declined after he stopped training and became involved in partying and vices.
9. In 1993, Morrison fought against George Foreman and won, becoming a world boxing champion.
10. In 1995, Morrison won the IBC title by defeating Donovan Ruddock, but lost it three months later.
11. Morrison's power and strength began to decline, and he was diagnosed with HIV in 1996.
12. The boxing athletic commission in Nevada prohibited Morrison from participating in boxing due to his HIV diagnosis.
13. Morrison retired from boxing and underwent treatment, but later attempted to return to the sport.
14. In 2007, Morrison falsified medical tests to obtain a boxing license, putting his opponents at risk.
15. The New York Times investigated and exposed Morrison's deception.
16. Morrison continued to live a private life until his mother revealed in 2013 that he had only a few days left to live.
17. Tommy Morrison passed away on September 1, 2013, at the age of 44.
18. Morrison's boxing record consisted of 49 victories, 44 of which were by knockout, and only three defeats.