Vinny Pazienza embodied heart and determination in his prime.
Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera had an amazing trilogy in the same era as the Gatti v Ward trilogy. It was a great time to be a boxing fan.
A few recommendations -
Wait Until Spring, Bandini - John Fante
Company - Max Barry
Haunted - Chuck Palahnuik
Feast of Snakes - Harry Crews
Clockwork Orange - Anthony Burgess