Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Tyson, 54, is returning to the ring after a 15 year absence.
Yesterday it was announced that Mike Tyson, 54, had signed on to box Roy Jones Jr., 51, in an eight round exhibition match. The spectacle is set for September 12th and will be broadcast on Triller.
After the news became official, ‘Iron’ Mike took to twitter to share a promo video for the event, along with a succinct announcement of ‘I. AM. BACK.’
I. AM. BACK. #legendsonlyleague. September 12th vs @RealRoyJonesJr on #Triller and PPV #frontlinebattle @TysonLeague pic.twitter.com/eksSfdjDzK
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) July 23, 2020
In the 80s and 90s Tyson was one of the most feared combat sports athletes on the planet. He reigned as the undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990, holding WBA, WBC and IBF titles. Known for his punching power, Tyson holds a record of 58-6 (2 NC) with 44 wins by KO.
Tyson started his career with a 37 fight win streak. That ended with a shock defeat to Buster Douglas on February 11, 1990. Tyson would win his next eight fights before losing again, to Evander Holyfield on November 9, 1996. Tyson fought a rematch with Holyfield on June 28, 1997.
The second Holyfied fight ranks as one of the most notorious bouts in modern boxing history, thanks to an in-fight incident in which Tyson bit off part of Holyfield’s ear. Tyson was disqualified for this conduct, earning him the third loss of his career and a lengthy ban from boxing.
Between 1999 and 2005 Tyson fought 10 more times. Over that period, which included KO losses to Lennox Lewis, Danny Williams and a corner stoppage loss to Kevin McBride, he amassed a record of 5-3 (2 NC)
Tyson announced his retirement after the McBride fight.
Since (temporarily) retiring from boxing Tyson has become a popular celebrity, appearing in numerous movies and television shows. He also hosts a successful podcast and has made high profile appearances in the world of pro wrestling.
Tyson’s celebrity comes despite the fact that he has been embroiled in various controversies for much of his adult life. In July 1992 Tyson was convicted of raping an 18-year-old. He was sentenced to six years in prison and four years probation. Tyson, who was also required to register as a sex offender, spent less than three years in prison.