Gerry Cooney Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

The Rise of a Heavyweight Powerhouse

Gerry Cooney, born Gerald Arthur Cooney on August 24, 1956, emerged from modest roots in Manhattan, New York — raised in a blue-collar Irish-Catholic family on Long Island. His early exposure to boxing came through family influence: his father encouraged the sport, and his brother, Tommy, also boxed as an amateur. 

As an amateur, Cooney demonstrated early promise. He compiled an amateur record of 55 wins and 3 losses and won two prestigious New York Golden Gloves titles — first in the 160-pound Sub-Novice division in 1973, then in the Heavyweight Open division in 1976. This foundation set the stage for his leap into the professional ranks.

In February 1977 Cooney turned pro — and quickly made a name for himself. Standing at 6 ft 6 in, with an imposing reach and a punishing left hook, he rapidly earned a reputation not just as a heavyweight brawler, but as one of the hardest punchers of his generation.

When Opportunity Knocked — The Fights That Defined a Legacy

Cooney’s pro career included 31 fights, of which he won 28, with 24 coming by way of knockout; he suffered just three defeats.

One of the most pivotal moments of his career came in 1981 when he faced Ken Norton — a former heavyweight champion. In a savage display of power, Cooney knocked Norton out in just 54 seconds, tying a record for the fastest knockout in a main event at Madison Square Garden.

That victory, and his rising profile, built anticipation for one of boxing’s most hyped matchups: Cooney vs. Larry Holmes. On June 11, 1982, Cooney challenged Holmes for the WBC and The Ring heavyweight titles. The fight carried enormous stakes — both athletic and symbolic. Reports at the time placed Cooney’s purse at around $10 million, making it the richest payday for a challenger in boxing history up to that point.

Though Cooney lost by TKO in the 13th round, the bout cemented his status as a bona fide star of the heavyweight division.

He continued fighting through the 1980s, challenging again for a title in 1987 against Michael Spinks — a contest he lost — and ultimately had his final professional fight in 1990 against George Foreman. Across his career, Cooney became known for his devastating knockout power and high knockout-to-win ratio — traits that solidified his place among the most feared punchers in heavyweight history.

Beyond the Ring — Reinvention, Reflection, and Respect

Retirement did not mean obscurity for Gerry Cooney. Rather, it marked the start of a quieter, more thoughtful chapter. After leaving the ring, he transitioned into roles outside fighting: becoming a boxing promoter, co-hosting “Friday Night at the Fights” on SIRIUS XM Radio, and mentoring younger fighters.

Despite the high stakes and heavy punches of his boxing years, Cooney has credited prudence, self-awareness, and respect for the “rainy day” — values shaped by his upbringing — for helping him avoid the financial pitfalls that have plagued many former boxers. As one profile put it, “he’s one of the exceptions to that rule” of fighters losing everything.

Though some estimators place his net worth slightly higher, authoritative sources widely estimate Gerry Cooney’s net worth at around $3 million. 

Private Life — Family, Faith, and the Man Behind “Gentleman Gerry”

Outside the public eye, Gerry Cooney has endeavored to keep his personal life grounded and relatively private. According to multiple sources, he has been married to his wife, Jennifer, since 1994; together they have three children.

Known by the moniker “Gentleman Gerry,” Cooney’s reputation outside the ring — as generous, reflective, and humble — contrasts sharply with the intensity he brought inside it.

Over the years, he has also been involved in efforts to support retired fighters and encourage better transitions after boxing careers. 

Why Gerry Cooney’s Story Still Matters

Gerry Cooney’s journey offers a compelling narrative: a young man from working-class New York who harnessed brute strength, sharp ambition, and a powerful left hand to rise to the heights of heavyweight boxing. His dramatic showdowns — most famously against Larry Holmes — remain part of boxing lore.

But more than that, Cooney’s post-boxing life demonstrates a model of reinvention that doesn’t rely solely on fame or fortune. By staying financially prudent, embracing mentorship, and maintaining humility, he avoided many of the pitfalls that have plagued former fighters.

In an era where many boxing careers fizzle after a few high-profile bouts — or worse, lead to hardship — Cooney’s legacy is a reminder that “success” can be about more than titles: it can be about sustainability, dignity, and giving back.