Ali's boxing career spanned over 20 years. He first won the world heavyweight championship in 1964 by beating Sonny Liston. The following year, in May 1965, Ali knocked out Liston again in the opening round of their rematch.
In 1974, Ali became the undisputed heavyweight champion when he defeated George Foreman in the famous "Rumble in the Jungle". He held onto the title until 1978 when he lost to Leon Spinks in a split decision, which many consider one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.
Despite his impressive record, Ali admitted he was scared of Tyson. In a video clip shared on YouTube, Ali can be heard saying:
"I'm scared of him. He's a real champ. [Tyson would have won], I was a dancing master. You are that powerful and so fast, if he hit me [mimics falling over]."
Ali, known for his quick footwork and evasive style, referred to himself as a "dancing master". But he believed Tyson's power and speed would have been too much for him to handle.
'Iron' Mike Tyson, now 58, is still considered one of the most ferocious heavyweights of all time. He was at his peak in the mid-to-late 1980s. In 1986, at just 20 years old, Tyson became the youngest world heavyweight champion in history. He won the WBC heavyweight title by knocking out Trevor Berbick in the second round.
Ali's admission shows the respect he had for Tyson's skills, even though their careers didn't overlap. The statement from such a legendary figure in boxing history adds to Tyson's already impressive legacy in the sport.