Evander Holyfield, one of boxing's greatest heavyweights, says Mike Tyson was unbeatable in his prime. The former champion shared this view in a recent YouTube interview, looking back on his career and opponents.
Holyfield started his pro career just months after winning bronze at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. He quickly made his mark, becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion in his 18th pro fight by knocking out Carlos De Leon in the 8th round in 1988.
Two years later, Holyfield moved up to heavyweight and stopped Buster Douglas in the 3rd round at The Mirage in Las Vegas. This win made him the undisputed heavyweight champion and the first fighter to hold undisputed titles in both weight classes.
Oleksandr Usyk matched this feat last May when he outpointed Tyson Fury in Riyadh.
Despite facing many great fighters, Holyfield singled out Mike Tyson as the toughest opponent in his prime. In a YouTube clip, Holyfield said:
"Unpredictable. When you didn't know what Tyson was gonna do, everybody was in trouble. He changed up and got into a rhythm that everybody knew and became beatable. I was fortunate enough to fight him when he was beatable."
Tyson's prime was indeed impressive. He became the world heavyweight champion at just 20 years old in 1986, knocking out Trevor Berbick in the second round. His ferocious style and unpredictability made him a feared opponent.
Holyfield's words carry weight, given his own stellar career. He fought many great boxers of his generation, but still sees prime Tyson as the most formidable. Tyson's later career had its ups and downs, but his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights remains intact.
This admission from Holyfield offers a unique insight into the world of heavyweight boxing during one of its most exciting eras. It's a testament to Tyson's skill and impact that even a champion like Holyfield considers him unbeatable at his peak.
