Boxing legend Mike Tyson has had a nagging history of substance abuse. The former heavyweight champion has stated publically many times that he consumed drugs on a regular basis, which became rampant during the later stages of his career.

Tyson gained fame and wealth from a young age, however, he lacked the maturity to use that wisely. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Iron Mike revealed how he used to party for weeks without getting proper amounts of sleep. “I’d have weeks without sleep. I’d just get 10 minutes of rest and be ready to go again,” he said.

He also stated that he was not in a mentally sound frame of mind and wanted to die. “I wanted to die. I hated living. You have no idea what kind of person I was on the street,” he added. This was clearly proved after ‘The Baddest Man On The Planet’ was arrested in 2007. He was sentenced to 24 hours in jail and three years probation after pleading guilty to c***ine possession and driving under the influence in Arizona.

Read More: “You Have to Chill Down”: Mike Tyson Calls His Wife ‘Frustrated Talk Host’

However, this would change after Tyson met his third wife, Lakhia Spencer, who helped him overcome this destructive lifestyle and make a positive change in his life. Moreover, he also adopted a healthier lifestyle after retirement, which has considerably improved his physical and mental health.

How turning vegan helped Mike Tyson overcome his drug addiction

In an interview with Oprah Winfrey back in 2013, Tyson revealed how a vegan diet had helped him subside his drug use and lose over 100 pounds in weight. “Becoming a vegan gave me another opportunity to live a healthy life. I was so congested from all the drugs and bad c***ne, I could hardly breathe, high blood pressure, almost dying, arthritis. And once I became a vegan, all that stuff diminished,” he said in the interview.

Now, at 56 years old Tyson has reached the age where regular consumption of these drugs could have major consequences on his health. Moreover, Iron Mike is now a father and understands the responsibility that comes with raising children properly.

WATCH THIS STORY – Five Infamous Altercations of Mike Tyson outside the Ring

What did you think about Tyson’s pre-marital lifestyle? Let us know in the comments.