Mike Tyson, the youngest world heavyweight champion ever, recently opened up about his complicated feelings towards his rival Evander Holyfield. The former champ's career was filled with fierce rivalries that turned his fights into must-see events both in and out of the ring.
Tyson made history in 1986 when he became the youngest world heavyweight champion at just 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days old. His career was marked by intense rivalries, including a notable brawl with Lennox Lewis during a New York press conference.
But it's Tyson's relationship with Evander Holyfield that stands out. Their first fight ended with Holyfield winning by stoppage in the 11th round. The rematch led to a police stand-off with Tyson.
In a recent interview, Tyson revealed his complex emotions towards Holyfield:
"I just thought he was awesome. I had great admiration and respect for him but I just never thought he could beat me."
Tyson vividly recalled their first fight. He hit Holyfield with a right hand to the body in the opening round, causing Holyfield to scream. For the next 10-11 rounds, Tyson found himself on the ropes.
The experience left Tyson with conflicting thoughts:
"I wish I never hit this guy. I hit this guy to the body, he tried to kill me. I heard him screaming then he tried to really kill me. That's why I despised him so much because I admire him so much. I want to kill him."
In a separate storyline, Tyson recently returned to the ring after nearly 20 years away from professional boxing. He faced YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in November, ultimately losing the bout. The fight week got heated, with Tyson slapping Paul during their final staredown.
