From Gypsy Roots to Bare-Knuckle Brawls
John Fury, the father of reigning WBC world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has unveiled his riveting life story in a candid autobiography titled “When Fury Takes Over.”
The book chronicles John’s life, beginning with his birth in a gypsy wagon on an Irish roadside in Tuam, County Galway, and delves into the fascinating journey that led him to become a prominent figure in the world of boxing.
Challenges and Prejudice Faced
Growing up in a nomadic gypsy family, John and his family faced societal prejudices and discrimination.
He reflects on the stigmatization that gypsies endured, being labeled as thieves and vagabonds. Despite these challenges, the Fury family upheld values of respect, cleanliness, and integrity.
John’s mother, a natural southpaw boxer, instilled boxing abilities in the family.
Limited Education and Early Struggles
John’s education was curtailed due to prejudice against gypsy children in schools during the early 1970s. He recalls the hostile environment where violence overshadowed learning.
Instead, John joined his family in working to make a living, hawking carpets door-to-door and engaging in other trades.
From Bare-Knuckle Boxing to Professional Fighting
John’s path led him into professional boxing, where he fought for a few hundred pounds on Saturday nights to support his family.
He also carried on the family tradition of bare-knuckle boxing, where he remained unbeaten, known for his fighting prowess and tenacity.
A Settled Life and Tyson’s Education
At the age of 26, John purchased a farm in Cheshire, providing a settled life that allowed Tyson to receive a formal education denied to his father.
Tyson’s journey in boxing began at the age of 11, where his innate talent quickly became evident. As Tyson’s size and power grew, finding suitable sparring partners became a challenge, necessitating trips to distant locations for suitable opponents.
John’s Stint as an Enforcer and Redemption
In his 30s, John worked as an “enforcer,” assisting those dealing with debts or bullying situations. This chapter of his life led to a life-altering incident that resulted in an 11-year prison sentence.
While incarcerated, John found solace in his faith and strived to emerge as a better person.
His journey in prison was marked by adherence to rules and fitness, and he expresses gratitude to the prison officers.
Reality TV and Mental Health
After his release, John became a prominent figure in reality TV shows, including ITV’s “Tyson Fury: The Gypsy King” and Netflix’s “At Home With The Furys.” Like his son Tyson, John acknowledges grappling with mental health issues and emphasizes the importance of seeking positive interactions during challenging moments.
The Real John Fury
John Fury’s autobiography reveals the genuine and unfiltered aspects of his character. He remains a man of extremes, unafraid to express his emotions.
John’s story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the unwavering strength of family bonds.
Legacy of a Fighter and Father
On his gravestone, John envisions the epitaph, “John Fury, a man of extremes.” He believes that while he is a fighter, his most significant role is that of a father.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn