[1] Laing fought 56 times in a twenty-year career, the highlight of which was a shock split decision win over Roberto Durán in September 1982.
His stance was famously "hands down" and wide legged, which left him open to strikes from his opponents, though also gave him the perfect balance to bob and weave out of harm's way.
[2] Laing's boxing career was sporadic, as he often failed to deliver on his promise, appearing under-prepared against less able fighters and indulging in drink, drugs and gambling.
[citation needed] He lost a fight for the European Welterweight title in 1989, but won it a year later by defeating Antoine Fernandez with a knock out in the second round.
[2] Laing continued to fight until he was 40, and retired after a stoppage loss to future world champion Glenn Catley.
The book contains many insights from people who were close to the fighter including former managers, trainers and opponents he faced at both amateur and professional level.