From a turbulent and troubled childhood, to one of the most famous and electrifying names in boxing history, Mike Tyson exits the ring with legendary status.
Tyson’s story is a testament to the triumphs and challenges that come with the pursuit of greatness, according to spartsboxing.com.
Growing up, Tyson encountered various hardships. He was arrested 38 times by the age 13. As a result, he was placed in a detention center. His emerging talent was discovered by his counselor and former boxer, Bobby Stewart, who labeled Tyson as an “outstanding boxer.” Stewart took it upon himself to train Tyson, but later passed the baton to professional trainer Cus D’Amato, who eventually became Tyson’s legal guardian and father figure, according to talksport.com.
Tyson’s powerful strikes, relentless endurance and blistering speed contributed to his dominance in his first few years of boxing. He won his first 19 matches by knockout and went undefeated for the next five years. He then went on to become the youngest boxer to ever receive the heavyweight world champion title. Ultimately, Tyson retired with 44 knockouts with a total of 50 wins and only six loses, according to britanica.com.
Although Tyson is recognized as one of the most influential boxers of all time, his career was cut short due to a false rape allegation that resulted in jail time of three years.
“Mike Tyson suffered a series of trials and tribulations throughout his career. But, he always preserved and proved the world wrong, ” said senior Jaden Campos. “He will go down as one of the best boxers of all time.”
