When your idols become your rivals is one of Jono Carroll's most famous quotes, and for good reason.
Overcoming almost every single fight put in front of him, Jono 'King Kong' Carroll has had an extensive career in the world of boxing. But it's not always been easy.
From escaping the wrong crowd in Ireland to juggling a fledgling boxing career with other work in Australia, Carroll hasn't had the easiest road to success. However, that path has helped build his resiliency, turning him into the formidable fighter and incredible human he's now known as.
The story of Jono Carroll is a fascinating tale of hardship, perseverance, and luck. Sit back and listen to find out how the streets of Ireland and the words of Islam helped forge the career and life of one of the best boxers of his generation.
You’ll hear about:
• Surviving childhood in Ireland.
• Turning pro in Australia while working in KFC.
• Winning Prize Fighter but losing a world title contest.
• Being 'set up' on the undercard of Fury vs Klitschko.
• Beating an idol turned rival on their own patch.
• Becoming a better self through life and religion.
🎧 Watch or listen on your favourite platform:
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBitsYouDontSee
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GoQcDSj3bU1og11KUZ7uX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bits-you-dont-see/id1787517797
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Highlights
00:01:51 - Jono's story
00:05:05 - Surviving younger years
00:09:21 - Escaping to Australia & turning pro
00:15:08 - Returning to Ireland
00:18:22 - Chasing World Title & struggles with boxing
00:20:41 - 'Irish Fight of the Year'
00:27:23 - Eddie Hearn and the taboo tattoo
00:31:34 - Losing the title fight
00:33:34 - Winning Fury vs Klitschko undercard fight
00:38:41 - Beating Scott Quigg
00:44:06 - The boxing mentality and freedom
00:49:50 - Conor McGregor beef
00:57:35 - Converting to Islam and becoming best self
01:08:45 - Meeting the Sheikh and visiting Makkah
01:15:53 - Proudest moment
01:18:55 - Biggest challenges in life
01:28:46 - Overcoming your worst self & surviving
01:34:37 - Shaking off shame and accepting your past
01:39:03 - First and biggest loss
01:40:29 - Dreaming big and reflecting on life
01:42:13 - Injuries, hardship, and torturing the body
01:47:44 - Living life to the fullest
01:49:17 - Outro