Cooper is a boxing nut
Wallaby vice-captain Quade Cooper says his passion for boxing is growing after a fourth round knockout win in his second professional fight.
The Reds flyhalf, introduced before Wednesday's bout as 'the Quintessential Quade Super Cooper', floored former cage fighter Warren 'The Fortress' Tresidder, 40, to keep his win record intact.
Tresidder had 25 years of cage fighting experience, but just one professional bout – which ended in a loss to former England cricketer Adam Hollioake.
Despite easing past another wannabe, never-has-been journeyman, Cooper certainly believes in the Australian media hype surrounding his latest 'victory'.
"Since I put on the gloves and started training I have enjoyed it. And the passion will only continue to grow," Cooper told reporters.
Whether his boxing career blossoms remains to be seen, with Australian Rugby Union chief Bill Pulver indicating he may have to stop fighting as part of negotiations for a new contract, with his current one due to expire later this year.
Cooper believes his boxing training has made him a better rugby player and he has been backed by the likes of Reds teammates James Horwill and Will Genia.
Asked if he would fight again, Cooper said: "Yeah, hopefully.
"It is something I enjoy doing, but those discussions [with Pulver] are yet to be had.
"All I am going to focus on for the rest of the year is doing all I can for the teams I am involved in – the Reds and hopefully the Wallabies after what I hope is a good Super Rugby season."
Asked about donning the name "the Quintessential Quade Super Cooper" on the back of his robe next time he takes to the ring, Cooper replied: "My shoulders aren't that broad.
"The Reds boys had been asking during the week if I had come up with anything.
"But I don't think I am in a position to have a nickname after two fights."
Under new Wallaby coach Ewen McKenzie, Cooper has revived his career and is now among the names cited to take over the captaincy with incumbent Ben Mowen planning to move abroad.
Australia's international season kicks off with three Tests against France in June.
AFP
