Mike Tyson Reveals Why He Didn’t Compete in Kickboxing and MMA

Published 07/23/2021, 1:30 PM EDT

Mike Tyson was the biggest star of boxing in the 1990s. He came into the sport at an extremely young age. Within no time he became one elite face of heavyweight boxing. His persona, terrifying punching power, swift in-ring movements, and overall ability to tackle his opponents made him a fan favorite.

Given his success, many expected Tyson to place his foot in the MMA or kickboxing universe, but the New York boxer, who was adamant about staying in boxing, doesn’t regret the same.

In his new HotBoxin’ podcast, ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’ talked about why he didn’t think about competing in kickboxing or MMA.

Article continues below this ad

“They won’t pay me enough money for that. They won’t pay enough money,” he said.

Tyson made his debut in boxing in 1985. Back then, he was a young kid who was waiting to explode once given the big stage. That said, once he appeared on the professional circuit, it was principally a cakewalk for ‘Iron’ Mike.

He hammered every opponent he faced and remained unbeaten for the first five years of his career. By this time, the fans began citing him as a legend of the game, thus comparing him to the likes of Muhammad Ali and more.

Tyson Fury Explains His Controversial Pictures with Fans

But Tyson’s career got filled with trials later. Despite this, he kept his composure to enjoy a decorated stint in the game. He departed the sport for good in 2005, but he left a gigantic legacy behind. The memories of his performances still provide goosebumps to hardcore and casual boxing lovers.

Mike Tyson – The most unusual boxer to ever step inside the ring?

Article continues below this ad

Tyson, with his prolific performances, brought millions of fans to the sport of boxing. That’s why his fan base isn’t just restricted to boxing or MMA.

Furthermore, his legacy still inspires many to take up the sport of boxing. Also, he looks for multiple ways to inspire the masses. Even today, the 55-year-old keeps himself active and highly relevant to the boxing fanatics with his antics and his Hotboxin’ podcast.

Article continues below this ad

‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’ was undoubtedly the most unusual boxer to step inside the ring. And there’ll be no one like him ever.

Watch this story – Joe Joyce vs. Carlos Takam Stats: Record, Height, Knockout Ratio, and More

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Prathamesh Singh Chauhan is a Boxing Author at EssentiallySports. He is a graduate from the International Institute of Sports Management who combines his love for sports, particularly combat sports, and his flair for writing and analysis to help him in his day-to-day work. He has prior professional experience with sporting organizations such as Star Sports, Khelo India, and NBA.

Mike Tyson Reveals Why He Didn’t Compete in Kickboxing and MMA

Mike Tyson – The most unusual boxer to ever step inside the ring?

Trending

Ryan Garcia’s Payout for Devin Haney Fight to Exceed ‘$50 Million’ After $2 Million Bet Pays Off Big

Ryan Garcia Blasts Boxing Fan for Spreading Devin Haney PPV Buys Rumors

Ignoring Mother’s Warning After $50 Million Payout Could Cost Ryan Garcia Big Time

Can You Bet on Yourself in Boxing? Ryan Garcia’s $50 Million Payout Sparks Debate Among Fans

Watch: Ryan Garcia Buys $1.5 Million Ring for Alleged Girlfriend After $50 Million Payday