In the formative years of Mike Tyson‘s boxing journey, Teddy Atlas played a pivotal role, guiding the young Tyson from the age of 12. Their partnership, however, took a dark turn when Mike Tyson, at 15, engaged in troubling behavior. According to Atlas, Tyson, though physically robust, had significant character flaws. In an interview on the Joe Rogan Experience, Atlas revealed a disturbing incident that led to the breakdown of their relationship.

Atlas detailed an altercation where he confronted Tyson with a gun after the young boxer was accused of inappropriate conduct on his 11-year-old family member. Atlas explained that Tyson’s behavior had been escalating, with incidents of threatening students and inappropriate conduct towards girls. The incident even ended up with Atlas putting a gun on Tyson’s head. As Tyson grew older, he apologized for the incident but it seems like Teddy wants something else.

Teddy Atlas’ acceptance of Tyson’s apology depends on a factor

Reflecting on the apology, Atlas stated, “I wanna be the great gracious guy right now (and) say, “Oh I’m so human that, you know, a man’s man enough to say sorry, that’s it we’re good”. Yet, he raises valid concerns about the sincerity behind Tyson’s words.

Atlas delves deeper, questioning if Tyson’s apology was genuinely heartfelt or merely a part of his 12-step recovery process from alcoholism. He observes, “He was in the middle of 12 steps with the getting out of alcohol.” This introspective journey, marked by making amends to those wronged, adds layers to the apology’s authenticity. He questioned, “Okay, are you doing it for the 12 steps or are you doing it because you have really, truly come to terms with believing what you did was that hurtful to me. And that it matters to you that it was that hurtful to me.”

Atlas’ sentiments capture the complexities of forgiveness and personal growth. As Tyson continues his path of redemption, only time will reveal the depth of his transformation and the sincerity of his apologies.

Here’s how Mike Tyson apologized to Atlas

The rift which began back in the 80’s over personal matters took almost three decades to head towards its potential resolution. Fast forward to 2013, at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York. Atlas, now a commentator, found himself at a Tyson Promotions event. Mid-broadcast, his producer whispered about Tyson’s presence behind him. Atlas recalls, “So then he (the producer) starts giving me more information. He says he (Mike Tyson) wants to talk to you, and he wants to apologize to you. It’s up to you, do whatever you want.”

Despite the initial shock, Atlas decided to confront the past. Taking the chance, Atlas turned to see Tyson, who simply said, “I’m sorry, I was wrong.” Reflecting on the moment, Atlas had previously expressed, “It takes a man to do that… I felt it was sincere.” He added, “It meant something. I appreciated it.”

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However, it seems that despite him initially forgiving the boxing legend, some doubts about the truth of the apology remains in his mind. Do you think Tyson was genuinely apologizing or was it just for ‘12 steps’? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.

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