John, the former professional boxer famously nicknamed “Gypsy,” first made his mark in the world of combat sports as a bare-knuckle fighter. John’s name resurfaced in the public eye when his son Tyson Fury rose to global fame in the boxing world—a moment that brought renewed attention to John’s own storied past. Before all the spotlight and media coverage, John had already carved out his path in the 1980s, launching his boxing career during that era. Over time, John became not just a competitor but also a mentor, playing a pivotal role in shaping Tyson’s journey by training him from a young age and ultimately encouraging him to turn professional.

John’s life hasn’t been without controversy—he once served five years in prison for grievous bodily harm, a chapter that added complexity to his legacy. Despite the ups and downs, he has remained a central figure in his family’s boxing dynasty. Today, John lives in Cheshire with his wife, Amber, where he continues to support the next generation. In addition to Tyson, his sons Tommy and Shane have followed in their father’s footsteps, both pursuing careers in the ring—further cementing John’s influence across multiple generations of fighters.