Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champion, is now championing a different kind of fight. The boxing legend recently showed up at JFK Elementary School to support "Boxing for a Cause," an event aimed at raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention among young people.
The third annual event, hosted by Palm Beach Boxing & MMA and co-sponsored by the Sincere 2000 Foundation and Tyson's own foundation, brought together young amateur boxers between 10 and 20 years old. Tyson's presence energized the event and highlighted how influential figures can make a difference by speaking openly about emotional struggles.
Tyson shared his support on Instagram, saying, "Very grateful to support Sincere2000 Foundation's Amateur Boxing event hosted by @palmbeachboxing supporting mental health."
This isn't just a one-off for Tyson. He's been using his own story to inspire the next generation of boxers, focusing on how to address internal battles with strength and honesty. It's a far cry from his days in the ring, but it's a battle he knows all too well.
Back in 1998, the Nevada Athletic Commission evaluated Tyson and found he struggled with self-image, irritability, and maintaining healthy relationships. He faced intense public scrutiny and personal difficulties throughout his career.
But Tyson found a way to turn things around. In 2021, he credited psychedelics for changing his life:
"Everyone thought I was crazy, I bit this guy's ear off. Once I got introduced to the mushrooms... my whole life changed."
Now, Tyson is taking his advocacy a step further. He's partnered with Wesana Health to study how psilocybin might help treat traumatic brain injuries - an issue that hits close to home for many athletes in contact sports.
Tyson believes psychedelics can break down barriers and foster connection. He said:
"Put 10 people in a room who don't like each other and give them some psychedelics, [and] they'll be taking pictures with each other. I believe this is good for the world... It needs to be open to the world."
Despite his focus on mental health advocacy, Tyson hasn't completely left the boxing world behind. He recently made a return to the ring in a high-profile exhibition against Jake Paul and has launched a successful cannabis business.
Reflecting on his journey, Tyson said, "To think where I was-almost suicidal-to this now. Isn't life a trip, man?"
From heavyweight champion to outspoken mental health advocate, Mike Tyson's story is one of redemption, empathy, and a sincere effort to guide the next generation toward healing and strength. His presence at events like "Boxing for a Cause" shows how far he's come and the positive impact he's making outside the ring.
