The true story of boxing legend Lionel Rose The classic tale of one of Australia's greatest and most charismatic sportsmen - boxer Lionel Rose. In 1968 Rose, an unknown 19 year old, captured the imagination of the sporting world when he defied the odds to become world bantamweight champion. This is the tale of one man's gift - not only in the ring, but also outside the ropes, where his captivating smile and alluring nature endeared him to all he met. At his peak he was a national hero, at his tragic worst he was a petty thief who struggled to overcome the influence of alcohol and drugs. Rose fights back, picking himself up and putting his life back on track, adding an extra dimension to an incredible man.