Eric Esch was the most renowned fighters in combat sports back in the 90s. Not just in boxing, but ‘Butterbean’ made a mark in various verticals of combat sports like MMA, wrestling, and kickboxing. In a genuine sense, he was a true combat sports fighter. However, the heavyweight sensation never collided against Mike Tyson.
‘Butterbean’ was approached prior to Roy Jones Jr. getting scheduled to face Tyson in the exhibition bout. In a fresh conversation with Fred Talks Fighting, the 54-year-old revealed why he didn’t sign for the exhibition bout against ‘Iron’.
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“No! I’m totally retired,” said Esch.
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 28, 2020; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Mike Tyson (black trunks) exits the ring after his split draw against Roy Jones, Jr. (white trunks) during a heavyweight exhibition boxing bout for the WBC Frontline Belt at the Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Scarnici/Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports
“There’s a lot of talk about me being in that fight with Tyson was all actually offered to me (in) an exhibition. But I know when it’s time, I know I’m old, I’ve got grandkids, I’ve got nine grandkids. I’m just enjoying my life right now.”
‘Butterbean’ asserted that is past his prime and he nothing left to prove in the game again. He believes he needs to dedicate more of his time to his family, friends, and fans who have been alongside him since the inception of his decorated career.
He still has no plans on coming back to the sport, even if it is for an exhibition bout.
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Mike Tyson or Eric Butterbean? Who’d have won if they fought in their prime?
Mike Tyson and Eric Esch were among the two biggest names in boxing back then. However, the mighty clash between them couldn’t take place. Both had illustrious careers and dynamite like power to put their opponents to sleep.
But during his prime, Tyson took on much bigger and sturdy opponents compared to the ‘Butterbean’.
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LAS VEGAS – FEBRUARY 25: Mike Tyson boxes Frank Bruno at the Hilton Hotel-Casino on February 25, 1989 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tyson defeated Bruno with a TKO in Round 5. (Focus on Sport via Getty Images)
Tyson was much of an active fighter inside the ring, moving too swiftly carrying his vast frame. If the duo had ever collided, Tyson may have had the upper hand in a boxing match. Furthermore, combat fans could have borne witness to cross-sport fights as well as Tyson would not have backed down.
Would you like to see the pair take each other on in an exhibition fight?
