Every boxer dreams of becoming the unified champion of the world. As enticing as that title seems, earning it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. When Mike Tyson became the heavyweight champion at 20, the boxing world was at his feet. He had established himself as the ‘Baddest man on the planet,’ and there was no looking back for him. He further went on to unify his titles and became one of the most successful boxers in the sport. But, sometimes, not all that glitter is gold. As victorious as Tyson was during his career, he suffered a lot of hardships and pain. He had the support of Cus D’amato and many others who made him who he was.

A photo of Mike Tyson with his old boxing coach Kevin Rooney has surfaced online. It is safe to say that Rooney played a role in making Tyson who he was during the early years of his professional career. When together, the duo was unbeatable and feared.

An old picture with an old friend…

Kevin Rooney was the one consistent figure always seen at Tyson’s ringside in his initial years of boxing. Rooney, with trainer D’amato, shaped Tyson into the sport’s most feared boxer. Under the guidance of Rooney, ‘Iron Mike’ went on to dominate boxing and reach the top of the mount Olympus of the sport.

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In the photo posted on Facebook, Tyson, and Rooney share a hug and hold up their fists for the camera. From his early days, Tyson developed a close bond with his boxing coach, which only strengthened as Tyson went on to win fight after fights.

‘Mike Tyson Always Kissed Kevin Rooney Straight on the Lips’ – Michael Jai White

But, during all that glory, Tyson was hurting internally. He has been open about his struggles with mental health.

The relationship between Kevin Rooney and Mike Tyson

Tyson was the first disciple Rooney ever had. Once a professional boxer, Rooney joined the ‘Catskills’ boxing gym to become a trainer. He played a crucial role in helping a young and scared Mike Tyson and taught him to use his anger to become one of the most ferocious boxers in the world.

However, when Tyson was still undefeated and at the peak of his career, he lost someone who can be called a father figure to him in the sport of boxing. Cus D’amato died in 1985, and it was harsh for young Tyson. He was vulnerable and made some choices he shouldn’t have. The relationship ended in 1988 when Tyson kicked Rooney out of his team.

After firing Rooney, Tyson went on to lose his first-ever fight in a bout against Buster Douglas in one of the biggest upsets of the century.

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What are your thoughts on Mike Tyson’s relationship with Kevin Rooney? Let us know in the comments.