Mike Tyson is one of the most recognizable personalities in the sport of boxing. The former heavyweight champion’s fame extended beyond the ring, and he was acquainted with the who’s who of the world. These included famous rappers and musicians like DMX.

Earl Simmons, more commonly known as DMX, passed away on April 9, and the news sent shock waves across the combat sports world. Several other combat sports artists paid their tributes to the famous American musician. 

The 50-6 boxer took to his ‘Hotboxin With Mike Tyson’ Instagram account to remember the rapper. He shared a video of his ring walk against Francois Botha, where he walked out to ‘It’s Dark’ by DMX. Tyson captioned the video, “RIP DMX.”

This was one of Tyson’s most famous ring walks, thanks to his intimidating demeanor. Moreover, it was the first fight for Tyson after his ban for biting Evander Holyfield. Therefore, it was a historic occasion for ‘Iron Mike’. And the fact that he picked DMX for his walkout song on that day showed that the rapper was close to him.

READ: 5 Mike Tyson Ring Walks Which Will Never Be Forgotten

Mike Tyson and his relationship with rappers

This tribute from Tyson to DMX showed that the former heavyweight champion had a close affinity for the late rapper. However, this is not the only musician with whom ‘Iron Mike’ shared a close bond.

One of his most famous friendships with a musician was his bond with late rapper Tupac Shakur. The two shared a close friendship, and Tyson was destroyed when the rapper lost his life.

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In addition, the ‘Baddest Man on the Planet’ has a close relationship with Snoop Dogg, Eminem, among many others. Snoop Dogg commentated on Tyson’s bout with Roy Jones Jr., while Eminem joined Tyson for an episode on his podcast.

Therefore, the former heavyweight champion clearly had a keen interest in the music industry. Thus, losing DMX will deeply affect ‘Iron Mike’.

What do you make of this tribute from Mike Tyson? Do you think it was his most intimidating ring walk ever?

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