10 Shocking Facts about Mike Tyson you probably don't know about
1. Youngest Heavyweight Champion
At just 20 years and 4 months old, Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history in 1986, defeating Trevor Berbick. His speed, power, and aggression were unparalleled at such a young age.
2. Owned Tigers as Pets
Tyson famously owned three bengal tigers as pets, including one named Kenya. He reportedly spent over $70,000 on the tiger's acquisition and additional sums on maintenance and veterinary care.
3. Bit Evander Holyfield's Ear
One of the most infamous moments in sports history occurred during Tyson's 1997 rematch with Evander Holyfield when Tyson bit off a part of Holyfield's ear. This shocking act resulted in his disqualification and a $3 million fine.
4. $400 Million Earnings Wasted
Tyson earned over $400 million during his career but declared bankruptcy in 2003. Lavish spending on mansions, cars, jewelry, and pets, combined with poor financial management, led to his financial downfall.
5. Faced Rape Conviction
In 1992, Tyson was convicted of raping Desiree Washington, an 18-year-old Miss Black America contestant. He served three years of a six-year prison sentence.
6. Pigeon Enthusiast
Since childhood, Tyson has been passionate about pigeons. His first fight reportedly occurred when a bully killed one of his pigeons. To this day, he keeps and cares for hundreds of pigeons.
7. Appeared in The Hangover
Tyson surprised fans with his comedic appearance in The Hangover (2009), where he played a fictionalized version of himself. The cameo revitalized his public image and introduced him to a younger generation.
8. Lost His Daughter in a Tragic Accident
In 2009, Tyson’s 4-year-old daughter, Exodus, tragically passed away in a treadmill accident. This heart-wrenching incident profoundly impacted him, leading to a period of intense personal reflection.
9. Vegan Lifestyle
In 2010, Tyson adopted a vegan lifestyle, claiming it helped him lose over 100 pounds and significantly improved his mental and physical health.
10. cartoon Show Star
Tyson starred in an animated tv series, mike tyson Mysteries, where he voiced a fictional version of himself solving bizarre cases alongside a talking pigeon and a ghost. The show, filled with humor and absurdity, showcased a lighter side of the boxer.
Tyson’s life is a mix of extraordinary achievements and shocking controversies, making him one of the most fascinating figures in sports history.