Atlas shared his thoughts on The Fight Podcast, comparing two of the most feared heavyweights in boxing history. While fans often debate matchups between legends like Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, and Joe Frazier, Atlas focused on Tyson and Liston.
Tyson is widely considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. He became the youngest heavyweight world champion at 20 and held the undisputed title from 1987 to 1990.
Liston, a former world heavyweight champion himself, knocked out Floyd Patterson twice in the first round and fought Muhammad Ali twice, losing both fights. He racked up an impressive record of 50 wins (39 by knockout) and 4 losses before his death at 40 in 1970.
Despite his admiration for 'Iron Mike', Atlas didn't mince words when predicting the outcome of this fantasy fight. On the podcast, he said Liston would win dominantly:
"Tyson would be at the end of that jab like a coyote on a locomotive. flat, pulverised. That jab would have hit him and sent a message, a physical and a mental message, you're in the wrong place at the wrong time, get the hell out."
Atlas pointed out that Liston was naturally bigger and a tremendous body puncher. These attributes would eliminate Tyson's head movement and elusive ability.
The psychological factor played a big role in Atlas's prediction too. He believed Liston would have intimidated Tyson:
"Tyson might have needed a diaper to get in the ring with Liston. He would have intimidated Tyson. It would have been his worse nightmare."
Atlas concluded his analysis with a clear prediction: "Tyson gets knocked out in the fight."
It's worth noting that despite this harsh assessment, Atlas remains a fan of 'Iron' Mike. He recently named a young fighter he thinks could break Tyson's record as the youngest world heavyweight champion.