 Happy B'day Mike Tyson Lesser-Known Insights into his Life.webp)
Beyond his boxing career, Tyson has ventured into acting, entertainment, and boxing promotion, earning him the moniker "The Baddest Man On The Planet"
Mike Tyson, born Michael Gerard Tyson in Brooklyn, New York, rose to prominence as the youngest undisputed heavyweight champion in the world. By age 20, he had claimed the WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight titles, solidifying his place in boxing history. Beyond his boxing career, Tyson has ventured into acting, entertainment, and boxing promotion, earning him the moniker "The Baddest Man On The Planet." Known for his enigmatic persona and controversial reputation, Tyson remains intrigued due to his complex personality, fierce demeanour, and tumultuous life journey.
As the boxer turns 58 today, let us dig deeper into the lesser-known facts.
Credit: Daily Star
Mike Tyson before his first fight in the ring
March 6, 1985, marked a significant moment in Albany, New York, as Tyson, at 18, stepped into the professional boxing arena for the first time. His debut match was against Hector Mercedes, and Tyson wasted no time showcasing his talent. He achieved a first-round technical knockout victory over Mercedes, kicking off an eventful first year as a professional boxer. Throughout that year, Tyson participated in 15 bouts, impressively winning 26 of his first 28 fights by knockout or technical knockout. Notably, 16 of these victories were secured within the first round, highlighting his explosive start and establishing him as a formidable force in the boxing world.
One of the more exciting facts about Tyson is his rigorous diet and workout regimen, which are crucial for his successful boxing career. To fuel his matches, Tyson consumed between 3,000 to 4,000 calories daily. His breakfast typically consisted of oatmeal, milk, and vitamin supplements, while lunch comprised chicken breasts and rice, and dinner featured steak and pasta. In between, Tyson would have a smoothie with six bananas and occasionally snack on ice cream and cereal.
Credit: Ring Magazine
On November 22, 1986, 20-year-old Tyson faced off against 33-year-old Trevor Berbick for the World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight championship. Tyson, who had not been defeated in 27 fights and was renowned for his powerful punches, knocked out Berbick quickly five minutes and 35 seconds into the second round. This victory made Tyson the youngest heavyweight champion ever, marking the beginning of his legendary career in boxing. Despite Berbick's efforts to withstand Tyson's aggressive onslaught, referee Mills Lane stopped the fight to prevent further damage, acknowledging Tyson's unmatched power and strategic execution in the ring.
Credit: Business Insider
Mike Tyson with his tiger at his home
Tyson's fascination with animals and combat took an unusual turn when he offered $10,000 to fight a silverback gorilla during a visit to a New York zoo in the late 1980s. Known for his love of animals, including owning exotic pets, Tyson expressed a particular disdain for a gorilla he perceived as a bully during a private tour with his wife. Despite his interest, the zookeeper wisely declined Tyson's proposition to enter the gorilla's enclosure, sparing both Tyson and the gorilla from what would have been a dangerous encounter.
Besides indulging in exotic animals, Tyson used his wealth to lavish gifts upon those closest to him, such as his wives. One notable instance was when Tyson purchased a luxurious 24-carat gold bathtub worth $2 million for his first wife, Robin Givens. Despite this extravagant gesture, their marriage ended after a year, leading Tyson to sell off the bathtub later.
