Former Boxer Squares Off Against Ex-New Jersey Governor In Charity Fight

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A former heavyweight title contender is stepping in the ring with a former New Jersey governor for a good cause.

CBS2's Otis Livingston reported "Gentleman" Gerry Cooney, former No. 1 ranked boxer by the World Boxing Council, and former Gov. Richard Codey will be going toe-to-toe in an exhibition match for the 4th Annual Gerry Cooney Fight Night benefit on Saturday, June 18.

The two will raise funds for the Youth Consultation Service and give underprivileged children a better shot at life.

"I was one of those kids. I was hiding out in the basement scared, and luckily I found my way as a fighter, but most kids, they're not going to be basketball players, they're not going to be fighters. They've got to find tools to survive in life," Cooney said. "And this is what we're all about. Codey and me, we do the same thing. We love each other. We help these kids."

Codey is fighting to raise awareness for mental illness.

"The biggest problem with mental illness is that it's a stigma. People are embarrassed and ashamed to speak up and they shouldn't be. It's just like any physical illness, so we tell them to talk to somebody," the former governor said.

"We train together. We get in shape a little bit. We're raising some money and the kids at the end of the day will be a little better off," Cooney said.

Codey had an unusual strategy for the upcoming charity match against Cooney.

"My strategy is to one – run from him; two – hit him below the belt; and three – to say 'no mas,'" Codey said.

To purchase tickets, people can call 201-678-1312 or visit YCS.org.