Mike Tyson feels lucky he fought Larry Holmes when he did. The former heavyweight champ recently opened up about his 1988 bout with Holmes on Joe Rogan's podcast.
Tyson, known as "Iron Mike," burst onto the boxing scene in 1985 at just 18 years old. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest heavyweight champion in history when he knocked out Trevor Berbick for the WBC title in 1986. Tyson's rapid ascent to the top of the boxing world was nothing short of spectacular.
By 21, Tyson had unified the heavyweight division, holding the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles after beating James Smith and Tony Tucker.
In early 1988, Tyson, still in his early 20s, faced Larry "The Easton Assassin" Holmes. Holmes was past his prime and making a comeback after a long layoff. Tyson won the fight handily.
But now, Tyson's looking back on that bout with a different perspective. He told Joe Rogan:
"What a fighter … After he fought me, he almost beat Evander Holyfield and Oliver McCall, 1 or 2 points from beating them, I said 'God damn', I was so happy I fought him his first fight [after his comeback], it would have been different after he had 10 or 15 fights because he was good."
Holmes, who reigned as world champion from 1978 to 1985, proved he still had plenty left in the tank after the Tyson fight. He kept boxing until 2002, challenging for world titles against Evander Holyfield in 1992 and Oliver McCall in 1995. Though he lost both fights, they were close contests.
Holmes finished his career with a win over Eric 'Butterbean' Esch in July 2002, his 75th professional fight. He retired shortly after, leaving behind a legacy that includes being the only man to stop Muhammad Ali, albeit when Ali was well past his best.
Tyson's admission shows the respect he has for Holmes and acknowledges how timing played a crucial role in their encounter. It's a reminder of how unpredictable and fascinating the sport of boxing can be, where a fighter's form and readiness can make all the difference.
