Who is Spoon from The Contender and what is their importance?

Spoon (Bill Witherspoon) is an ex-fighter, who once ranked the number seven light-heavyweight contender. His manager, Mr. Donatelli, told him that he was taking too much punishment and needed to retire. Now a school teacher, Spoon still loves boxing and remains close to Donatelli. He even helps out at the gym with the younger fighters when he has time.