Former heavyweight boxing contender Gerry Cooney urged...

Former heavyweight boxing contender Gerry Cooney urged Congress to create a national authority that would establish mandatory federal regulations for the health and safety of fighters.

Cooney, who twice fought unsuccessfully for the title, also called for federal assistance to help retired fighters make the transition to society.

Cooney testified before a House Commerce subcommittee considering legislation to establish the nonprofit U.S. Boxing Corp., which would coordinate the sport in the United States and set uniform voluntary health and safety standards.