Tommy Morrison- Early Life and Background

Tommy Morrison was born on January 2, 1969, in Gravette, Arkansas but was raised in Delaware County, Oklahoma. His parents were Diana and Tim, who were Native American and Scottish respectively.

While growing up, Morrison spent his early years as a teenager in Jay. As a teenager, he was fondly known as “The Duke.” A nickname based on the claim that he was a grand nephew to Hollywood star, John Wayne.

After graduating from high school, Morrison received a football scholarship to Emporia State University.

Boxing Career

Morrison started boxing at a very young age (all thanks to his father who urged him to go into wrestling at 13) and after enjoying a successful amateur career, he turned professional in 1988. He quickly gained a lot of traction due to his strength and knockout power.

Morrison’s boxing skills earned him his first world title in 1993 when he defeated George Foreman for the WBO Heavyweight Championship. However, he lost his title in just his second defense. He won the IBC Heavyweight Title two years later against Donovan Ruddock but lost the belt in his first title defense against Lennox Lewis.

HIV Diagnosis and Retirement

Morrison called it quits on his boxing career when he tested positive for HIV. He denied the virus and claimed that it was a false positive due to steroid use. He attempted several comebacks but was unsuccessful.

Tommy Morrison – Personal Life

Morrison had an interesting marital life. He married two women at the same time in 1996. By 19, he was already a father of two. He later married Trisha Morrison in 2011.

Death

He passed away in 2013 at the age of 44.