FROM THE ROAD TO THE RING; Gerard Healy street fighter to pro boxer to boxing promoter | Ep.120

Gerard ‘Boom Boom’ Healy is an ex-pro boxer. He talks about growing up in the notorious West Belfast area of Lenadoon. While growing up, fighting was the quickest way to earn respect in the community. Gerard gained a reputation for being one of the best fighters in the district. Although he had become known for fighting, Gerard was anything but a bully. Many of his street fights resulted from standing up for people being bullied. Gerard’s reputation for being a good street fighter led to someone suggesting he join the boxing club. He decided to try it and instantly fell in love with the sport. Being in his early 20s meant he had a lot of ground to make up, as most of the boxers had been competing since age 11. But this didn’t him off. Gerard went all with boxing and picked up an amateur title. He decided to turn professional, winning his debut. He mixed it with some of the best in Ireland during his career. He even fought Liverpool boxing legend and former world champion Liam Smith. When Gerard decided to bring down the curtain on his career, he stayed involved through coaching local lads. Some of the lads had shown some ability, but they lacked experience. This led to Gerard starting his semi-pro promotion, W & H Promotions. His promotion gets fights for people with no experience and ex-fighters. W & H Promotions has been going from strength to strength over the years and is preparing for its biggest event. An open-air PPV show at Seaview Stadium in North Belfast. Tune in to hear Gerard’s story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices