A reluctant Hollywood actor, Tommy's high point in life was undoubtedly his victory over big George Foreman in '93 for the WBO title. His role alongside Stallone had earned himself some acclaim. In real life, I give him the most credit for winning the heavyweight belt. By this point the 'Great White Hope' was finally taken seriously and subsequently lined up for further action against the likes of Donovan Ruddock and Lennox Lewis, the latter man handing Morrison a decisive loss. Not long after, the news of his testing positive for HIV wrapped up his boxing career on a very sad note.
Tommy's TV persona was for real. A man who came across as down-to-earth, he reportedly mixed well with fans while making a genuine effort in showing his gratitude. Foreman, whom Morrison defeated for the belt more than 20 years earlier, recently said in the LA Times: “The thing about Tommy was he was just a good guy.” Coming from one of the most respected boxers of all time, these words carry a lot of weight. Yes, Morrison had his highly publicized foul-ups and follies. But for these I forgive him because he was merely illustrating the human condition of fallibility. From a true fan of yours, RIP Tommy.
Unfortunately, his real boxing career and achievements (championship) will never outshine his fictional role in Rocky IV. Rocky was a major franchise, big enough to get Sylvester Stallone (an actor and writer), who never boxed into the International Boxing Hall Of Fame, while a real fighter like Morrison (with a decent record) will never get in.
I was a big fan of the rocky films growing up, so ill say him playing tommy "the machine" gunn. He did great things in real life boxing though
Boxing fans will remember his career, but most will remember his movie.
It is very sad to die so young. Unfortunately his life style was most likely responsible for his early death, and may also be a part of his legacy.
He should be remembered for his fights and his movie and not how he died.
What will Tommy Morrison be best remembered for?
