Tyson, known as "Iron Mike," made history in 1986 when he knocked out Trevor Berbick to become the youngest heavyweight champion ever at just 20 years old. He went on to dominate the division, taking on legends like Larry Holmes, Frank Bruno, Evander Holyfield, and Lennox Lewis over his 59-fight career.
But one big name was missing from Tyson's resume - fellow Brooklyn native Riddick "Big Daddy" Bowe. The two grew up in the same neighborhood and even went to school together. Bowe always claimed Tyson ducked him because he was scared.
In a recent interview with CNN, Tyson set the record straight:
"I love Riddick Bowe. We went to school together. That's one thing I would take different. At this stage of my life and being as conscience as I am, I don't think I would fight him. It's just too disrespectful."
Tyson went on to explain his fighting philosophy:
"The only reason you put your hands on somebody even in a street fight if you're conscious is because you have no respect for them. Kids fight because they don't know any better. But as grown men fighting, if they're conscious, the only reason I'll put my hands on you is because I have no respect for you if we have a fight."
Bowe had an impressive career of his own, becoming undisputed champion and beating Evander Holyfield twice in their three-fight series. But he'll always wonder what might have been if he and Tyson had met in the ring.
For Tyson, it seems the fight just didn't make sense on a personal level. His admission sheds new light on a matchup fans debated for years. It turns out sometimes even the baddest man on the planet puts friendship first.