Mike Tyson was known as one of the most fearsome boxers of his generation. His explosive movements combined with his devastating knockout power made him an unstoppable force in the heavyweight division. This would eventually lead him to become the youngest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing.
Watch What’s Trending Now!
Although Iron Mike was popular for his power, an underrated aspect of his game was his evasive head movement. Tyson was a master at evading punches bobbing and weaving like a middleweight, which helped him dodge hard shots from larger fighters. This defense was on full display after an old video of him showing his head movement resurfaced on the internet.
In the video, Tyson can be seen dodging multiple punches using slick head movement on par with the best defensive boxers. Moreover, fans were in awe of the video as they came out to appreciate his defense.
Fans react to Mike Tyson displaying his defensive skills
One fan stated Tyson was a joy to watch in the ring. He also appreciated Iron Mike’s impeccable head movement before he knocked out his opponent.
Man dodges about a dozen punches, always moving his head and waiting. Then boom 💥 just like that his plan is all undone. Sweet dreams! @MikeTyson was a joy to watch!
Another fan declared Tyson one of the best people overall and not just a great boxer.
One of my favorite PPL EVER in history... Not just limited to a boxer but a human... Tyson is dope all around.
Moreover, one fan exclaimed that he was glad to witness all of Tyson’s fights firsthand.
Another fan went as far as to claim that Tyson had the greatest peak among every professional boxer in the history of the sport.
The highest peak by any professional boxer ever to this date. Iron @MikeTyson was different.
One fan even suggested that this head movement could not even be replicated by one of the best defensive boxers, Floyd Mayweather.
Floyd Mayweather could NEVER!!!
Lastly, one fan claimed that Tyson would still be undefeated in his career if his coach and mentor Cus D’Amato hadn’t passed away,
Although Iron Mike did start declining in his skills after D’Amato’s death, he was still a great boxer. However, during his time under D’Amato, he was an unstoppable fighter, decimating every opponent put in front of him.
How good was Mike Tyson’s defense?
Iron Mike was an extremely talented defensive fighter. His ability to evade punches and make his opponents miss was the reason he was able to land his knockout punches. However, Tyson would go on to lose the majority of his defensive power later in his career as he started dealing with a host of personal issues.
Getty
LAS VEGAS – NOVEMBER 22: Heavyweight fighter Mike Tyson, right, and Trevor Berbick, left, in the ring before the start of their scheduled twelve round WBC heavyweight title fight at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tyson won the fight by TKO in the second round. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
It is true that power contributes to the success of a boxer in the ring, especially in the heavyweight division. However, to become an all-time great, one must also possess the skills to compete with the best, as Tyson perfectly portrayed this.
What did you think of Tyson’s head movement? Let us know in the comments.
WATCH THIS STORY: Deontay Wilder, Anthony Joshua Trilogy & Other Potential Opponents for Andy Ruiz Jr. Following Magnificent Victory Over Luiz Ortiz