10 Amazing Facts About Mike Tyson You Never Knew
Mike Tyson is an American boxing legend who needs no introduction. He is famous for his phenomenal punching power, fearsome knockout rates, and controversial behavior both inside and outside the ring. However, here are 10 amazing facts about the iconic Mike Tyson that you may not have known before.
1. He Was Arrested 38 Times Before He Was 13
Mike Tyson’s troubled childhood is well known. But what is less commonly known is that he was arrested 38 times before he turned 13 years old. Some of his early offenses included shoplifting, mugging, and breaking into houses.
2. He Had a Pet Tiger
Mike Tyson generated many headlines during his career, and one of the most bizarre ones was when he was photographed with his pet tiger. Tyson owned several exotic pets, including three Bengal tigers, which he kept in a custom-built compound at his home.
3. He Once Offered a Zookeeper $10,000 to Fight a Gorilla
In his autobiography, Tyson claimed that he offered a zookeeper $10,000 to fight a gorilla. Although he later stated that it was a joke, it’s hard to know for sure with Tyson.
4. He Holds the Record for The Youngest Heavyweight Champion
Mike Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history when he won the title in 1986 at age 20. Tyson’s reign was one of the most dominant periods in boxing history, and he successfully defended his title for several years.
5. He Has a Lethal Punch
Tyson was known for his extraordinary punching power, which he credited to his technique and a unique combination of speed and power. His uppercut was arguably his deadliest punch, which he used to devastating effect in many of his fights.
6. He Bit Off Part of Evander Holyfield’s Ear
One of the most infamous moments in boxing history came in 1997 when Tyson bit off part of Evander Holyfield’s ear during their rematch. Tyson was disqualified and fined $3 million for the incident, which remains a black mark on his legacy.
7. He Has Appeared in Movies and TV Shows
Tyson has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows over the years, including “The Hangover,” “Entourage,” and “Scary Movie 5.” He has also had a one-man show on Broadway, where he discussed his life story and experiences.
8. He Filed for Bankruptcy Despite Earning Millions
Despite earning hundreds of millions of dollars during his boxing career, Tyson filed for bankruptcy in 2003. He attributes his financial struggles to poor management, extravagant spending, and numerous legal issues outside of the ring.
9. He Converted to Islam
In 1992, Tyson converted to Islam and changed his name from Michael Gerard Tyson to Malik Abdul Aziz. Tyson has since been a vocal advocate for Islam and has credited his faith for helping him turn his life around after his turbulent early years.
10. He Has a Deep Love for Pigeons
Mike Tyson has a deep love for pigeons, which he has said he developed as a child. Tyson affectionately calls the birds “rats with wings,” and he even breeds them. He has been known to carry them around with him, and he credits them with providing a sense of peace and tranquility in his life.
Conclusion
Mike Tyson’s life has been full of highs and lows, triumphs and controversies. From his troubled childhood to his legendary boxing career to his adventures outside the ring, Tyson is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating figures in sports history. These 10 amazing facts about him only scratch the surface of his life. Despite all his flaws, Tyson continues to be an iconic figure today, and his impact on boxing and popular culture can never be forgotten.
