Mike Tyson is widely regarded as one of the most talented boxing fighters of all time, having reigned as the undisputed heavyweight champion between 1987 to 1990, after claiming his first belt at just 20 years old.
Tyson was a controversial character in the sport and divided opinion, most notably after returning to boxing following a prison sentence for rape in 1992. After regaining two heavyweight titles in 1996, Tyson was disqualified in the infamous “Bite Fight” of 1997, where Tyson bizarrely bit off part of Evander Holyfield’s ear.
Following a run of losses, Tyson retired from the sport in 2005. However, in a statement that draws parallels with the Rocky Balboa movie, Tyson, now 54, has announced a shock comeback in an eight-round Los Angeles fight against the formidable Roy Jones Jr, now 51.
Jones posted on Instagram “I am happy that this fight between me and Mike Tyson will happen! I was always ready and will be ready this time as well. I want all my fans to support me and tune in. Its gonna be epic🥊🥊🥊”
Considering the age of the contenders, it is expected they will wear headgear and larger gloves. In addition, they will be required to undergo medical tests to confirm their health including special measures to protect against COVID-19.
Jones, who was heavyweight champion in 2003 but only retired two years ago, advised “I had no intention of going back and fighting again but, for the sake of Mike Tyson, I agree to make an exception.”
Tyson separately told ESPN: “Just because we are 54, it doesn’t mean that we have to start a new career and our lives are totally over. Not when you feel as beautiful as I do, and I’m sure that other people feel the same way.”
On the face of it, the comeback of two sportsmen in their 50s might not normally draw much attention, but we expect this is going to make incredible viewing and, even if we didn’t, we’d be too scared to say otherwise 🤐
The build-up to the fight will be broadcast as part of a documentary series. Details of ticketing to attend and watch the fight live, which will be held on 12th September 2020, have not yet been discussed and are likely to be subject to progress surrounding the pandemic.