Over the span of several decades, boxing has witnessed some of the most heated rivalries between boxers. However, people still get goosebumps when they see the intense fight between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. Tyson had bit off a chunk of Holyfield’s ear during their rematch, and it instantly caused a stir in the arena. Given how hostile the two boxers were against one another, the bout is widely regarded as the biggest grudge match in boxing history. However, Holyfield has made some revelations about his rivalry with Tyson, which might come as a surprise to fans.

In a recent interview with iFL TV, Holyfield reflected on his past as one of Mike Tyson’s most challenging opponents. Shockingly, he revealed that he had a bond of friendship with Tyson, and the two were friends and respected each other. 

Holyfield stated, “Mike and I, we come together, everybody was just so happy and all this stuff like, you know. They always ask me, I say look man, Mike and I have always been friends. I said I don’t know why boxing had to make y’all feel like y’all had to be enemy. I said I never been his enemy. I said he’s always been good to me.”

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It has been 25 years since their rematch fight when Tyson bit off a portion of Holyfield’s ear. However, as Holyfield indicated, they were buddies rather than having a vendetta against one another. Fans would be really delighted to hear about the camaraderie between the two. Now that they get along well, the two are even collaborating on a business project. 

Mike Tyson vs. Evander Holyfield: Much more than just a boxing match 

In November 1996, ‘Iron Mike’ and ‘The Real Deal’ faced off for the first time inside the boxing ring. Everyone anticipated that Tyson, known as ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’, would outclass Holyfield. Mike launched a barrage of powerful blows at his opponent at the beginning of the battle, giving a hard time to his opponent.

But as the rounds went on, Holyfield, who had researched Tyson’s fighting style, began employing his plan to overcome Tyson. Holyfield finally defeated Tyson in the eleventh round of the fight, pulling off one of boxing’s biggest upsets.

Furthermore, the two met again after one year in 1997. The anticipation was intense for this rematch. As the fight progressed, Holyfield head-butted Tyson, which infuriated Tyson. Apparently, while they were in a clench, Mike bit off a part of Holyfield’s ear, leaving his ear covered in blood. 

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Tyson was disqualified, and Holyfield was declared the winner. Fans frequently talk about the unusual encounter and still recall the bizarre moment. Meanwhile, what do you think about Holyfield’s remarks? Share it in the comments below.