Meet Mike Tyson, a heavy muscled prodigious puncher standing tall at 5ft 10 inches and weighing 200 pounds. From a young age, Tyson showed a natural inclination towards the world of boxing, fueled by his violent streak and resolve for violence. Under the guidance of Cus D’Amato and Rooney, Tyson quickly rose to success, earning the nicknames ‘Iron Mike’ and ‘the baddest man on the planet’. Known for his terrorizing power and intimidating temperament, Tyson dominated his opponents with a single blow. However, his success was short-lived as his troubled childhood, poor judgement, and criminal behavior led him down a destructive path. Despite his attempts at redemption, Tyson’s image has been irreparably damaged, making him one of the most tragic figures in American sports history.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Michael Gerard Tyson, Iron Mike, Kid Dynamite
- Age: 57 Years, 57 Year Old Males
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Lakiha Spicer (m. 2009), Monica Turner (m. 1997–2003), Robin Givens (m. 1988–1989)
- Father: Jimmy Kirkpatrick
- Mother: Lorna Smith Tyson
- Siblings: Denise, Rodney
- Children: Amir Tyson, D’Amato Tyson, Exodus Tyson, Miguel Leon Tyson, Mikey Lorna Tyson, Milan Tyson, Morocco Tyson, Rayna Tyson
- Born Country: United States
- Quotes By Mike Tyson
- African American Men
- Height: 5’10” (178 cm), 5’10” Males
- U.S. State: New Yorkers, African-American From New Yorkers
- More Facts
- Awards:
- 1986 – Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year
- 1988 – Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year
- 1989 – BBC Sports Personality of the Year Overseas Personality
- 1985 – Ring magazine Prospect of the Year
Childhood & Early Life
Mike Tyson was born in Brooklyn, New York to Jimmy Kirkpatrick and Lorna Smith Tyson. He had an elder brother Rodney and a sister Denise who passed away in 1991. He also had a half-brother Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick from his father’s previous marriage. Kirkpatrick abandoned the family after Tyson’s birth, and the family moved from Bedford-Stuyvesant to Brownsville when Tyson was ten years old.
Early Boxing Career
From a young age, Tyson was involved in fights to solve personal problems and bullying. His boxing skills were noticed by Bobby Stewart, a counselor at the Tryon School for Boys, who introduced him to Cus D’Amato. Under D’Amato’s guidance, Tyson trained rigorously and had his first professional fight in 1985.
Amateur Boxing Career
Tyson’s training paid off as he won gold medals at the Junior Olympic Games in 1981 and 1982. He also competed in the trials for the 1984 Summer Olympics but did not make the team. Instead, he turned professional and began his successful boxing career.
Professional Boxing Career
Tyson had a successful start to his professional career, winning 26 out of 28 fights in his first year. He quickly gained media attention and became known as the future heavyweight champion. In 1986, at the age of 20, Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history by defeating Trevor Berbick.
Years of Glory
Tyson continued to defend his titles and became the first fighter to hold the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles in a single year in 1987. He defeated top-class opponents like James Smith, Larry Holmes, and Michael Spinks. His win over Spinks in 91 seconds in the first round was a highlight of his career.
Decline & Downfall
Tyson’s glorious years were short-lived as his personal and professional life faced turmoil. His alliance with Don King and changes in his boxing style led to his decline and downfall. He suffered a shocking defeat against Buster Douglas in 1990, losing his undisputed championship.
Tyson’s Comeback
After serving a prison sentence for rape, Tyson made a comeback to boxing and won several matches. However, his career was marred by controversies and underperformance. His last professional fight was in 2005 against Kevin McBride.
Post Retirement
After retiring from boxing, Tyson participated in exhibition matches and ventured into acting. He also wrote memoirs and started the Mike Tyson’s Legends Only League. He has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
Personal Life & Legacy
Tyson has been married three times and has eight children. He has faced personal struggles, including a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Despite his controversial past, Tyson remains a legendary figure in the world of boxing.