Boxing movies have always held a special place in the hearts of moviegoers and sports enthusiasts alike. Among the numerous classics, the Rocky movies stand tall as quintessential boxing films, widely regarded as the greatest in the genre. However, the boxing legend Mike Tyson has thrown a curveball into this narrative, asserting that there are other timeless classics deserving of equal recognition.

Tyson is currently training former UFC heavyweight Francis Ngannou for his upcoming boxing match against Tyson Fury. During this time, both ‘Iron Mike’ and ‘The Predator’ have become quite acquainted with each other. Ngannou even made an appearance on Tyson’s podcast. Despite this, their favorite boxing movies are worlds apart.

Mike Tyson and Francis Ngannou reveal their choices for the ultimate boxing movie

The two recently sat down in conversation for Complex, picking their choices for the greatest KOs, boxers, and MMA fighters. Eventually, the two also shared their picks for the greatest boxing movie of all time.

While Ngannou stuck with the crowd-favorite, Rocky, Tyson opted for a different path, choosing Raging Bull and The Hurricane as his top choices. “I like Denzel Washington and ‘The Hurricane,’ but I also like Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta in ‘Raging Bull,’ Tyson said. He also likes how the boxers in these movies start from nothing and end up with nothing.

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Tyson’s selection also evokes his admiration for Washington’s exceptional talent. The legendary actor’s portrayal of Rubin Carter showcased his remarkable acting prowess. Likewise, De Niro’s transformative performance as Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull earned him an Academy Award. Moreover, the choices of the two fighters for the greatest boxing movie align with their favorite actors of all time as well.

Ngannou and Tyson’s G.O.A.T. actors resonate with their G.O.A.T. boxing movies

In the show, the two also gave their picks for the greatest actors of all time. Ngannou, who has always been fascinated with Rocky, chose Stallone. He revealed that growing up, his father had a poster of Sly as ‘Rambo’, which naturally garnered fascination in a young Ngannou. However, for ‘Iron Mike’ his greatest actor was none other than Washington who, according to the former champion, could play any role.

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“Growing up, I was about 5 years old when we went to the village, and my dad had a big poster of Sylvester Stallone from “Rambo” with the machine gun, you know, with the helicopter in the background. Man, that was the first time I saw something like that. He was all messed up with the bandage on,” said Ngannou.

Tyson’s preference is a reminder that movies offer unique and powerful narratives that resonate with different audiences. Ultimately, the debate over the greatest boxing movie of all time continues, with these selections only adding depth to the discussion and encouraging fans to explore the rich tapestry of boxing cinema beyond the familiar Rocky series.

What did you think about Tyson snubbing Rocky and picking other classics for the G.O.A.T. boxing movie? Let us know in the comments.

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