Mike Tyson, the legendary boxer, has joined forces with the DEA to send a powerful message about fentanyl use. On Monday, Tyson visited DEA laboratories and put on an official uniform to help raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and other drugs.
The former heavyweight champion toured the facilities with Alina Habba, the acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. During his visit, Tyson learned about the devastating impacts of fentanyl and got a firsthand look at the DEA's work.
Tyson didn't hold back when talking about the risks. He said:
"One pill can kill you."
The boxer seemed shocked by what he learned about fentanyl's potency. He shared:
"I just found out that a pinch of fentanyl can kill someone. I was never educated about fentanyl and this is new to me. I'm just here to be informed about the laws."
Tyson also warned about the dangers of taking drugs from unknown sources:
"We have kids who take a pill from who knows where, smoke a vaporizer or take a gummy and don't know where it came from, and suddenly you're on the floor because of that little piece of fentanyl."
The campaign aims to educate people about fentanyl dangers, promote safe drug use, and prevent drug-related deaths. Tyson also learned about other drugs like Adderall and carfentanil, which is even more potent than fentanyl.
The Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor reports that nearly 70% of U.S. overdose deaths come from illegally manufactured fentanyl. In New York alone, 2,200 people died from overdoses in 2024.
Tyson's involvement in this campaign comes from a place of personal experience. He's dealt with his own struggles, including time in mental health facilities and battles with cocaine and alcohol. But he's turned things around, staying clean for nine years and giving up cigarettes, alcohol, and cocaine.
These days, Tyson uses his platform to make a positive impact. He promotes sports to children and works with various foundations. Alina Habba emphasized the importance of the campaign, saying:
"Tysons are big advocates for safe use. And making sure it doesn't come from China or a pesticide."
By teaming up with the DEA, Tyson hopes to knock out drug abuse and save lives.
