The Decline of Mullins
Mullins sought solace from whiskey. Once a highly-respected
aspirant for the lightweight crown, he now found himself associating
with the dregs of skid row. He would make himself into the 
alcoholic frenzy in which he would trumpet scurrilous attacks 
on the champ, the manager, and the judge. One avid fight fan
attributed Mullins' absence from ring to sickness, saying that
he was "recovering from the bad case of -- SCOTCH."

To rule the roost--Although he is a lowly private in the army,
at home he rules the roost.
(to be in charge, to be master)