Kevin Rooney

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Kevin Rooney born on May 4, 1956 in Catskill, NY and is a boxing trainer and former boxer.

1 Amateur Boxing Career
2 Professional Boxing Career
3 Training Career
4 External Links

[edit] Amateur Boxing Career

Rooney won the 1975 147lb Sub-Novice New York Golden Gloves Championship. Rooney defeated Kevin Higgins of West Point in the finals. Rooney trained at the Police Athletic Leagues 120th Precinct in Staten Island, New York.

[edit] Professional Boxing Career

Rooney began professionally boxing in 1979 and acquired a record of twenty-one wins, four losses, and one draw. The highlight of Rooney's professional career came in 1982, when he faced Alexis Arguello, in Arguello's debut in the 140 pound weight class. Rooney, who had generally fought at welterweight in his career up to that point, was knocked out in the second round. He also lost to future world light middleweight champion Davey Moore by seventh round TKO, in Moore's seventh pro bout. His last bout was in 1985.

[edit] Training Career

Rooney was the trainer of world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson from the start of his professional career in 1985, up until Tyson's bout with Michael Spinks in 1988. After he was fired by Tyson, Tyson's boxing skills declined noticeably. Tyson's first loss came shortly after Rooney's departure.

He, along with Teddy Atlas, is one of the only trainers familiar with Cus D'Amato's famed "Peek-a-Boo" boxing style. Rooney has continued to train fighters, working most notably with Vinny Pazienza.