“Who Did He Beat Again?”: Despite Holding Unbreakable Record for 36 Years and Avenging Muhammad Ali’s Loss, Mike Tyson Being Mentioned by Roy Jones Jr. in His Top 4 List Doesn’t Sit Well With Fans

Published 09/18/2023, 5:57 AM EDT

Eighteen knockouts in a debut year. Thirty-six years later, still unbroken. Mike Tyson, is a name that resonates with unparalleled prowess in boxing’s history. Roy Jones Jr., another boxing stalwart, recently revealed his all-time top four. Ali. Robinson. Duran. Tyson. An eclectic mix, some might say. Most would nod in agreement with three on the list. But Tyson? Despite avenging Ali’s loss and holding a record untouched for over three decades, his inclusion raises eyebrows.

Is it the ferocity of his punches? Or the shadow of controversies that trailed him outside the ring? Maybe it’s the era of competition he faced. In a sport revered for its technique, stamina, and strategy, personal choices can also ignite public debates. This list by Jones Jr. promises to do just that.

Why fans agree with Roy Jones Jr. on Ali, Robinson, and Duran

Diving straight into the crux, Roy Jones Jr. delineated his top four boxers for the world to behold. His ensemble read: Muhammad Ali, the charismatic powerhouse; Sugar Ray Robinson, the embodiment of technique and finesse; Roberto Duran, with his relentless aggression; and Mike Tyson, the very epitome of raw power.

Now, the first three inclusions were, by and large, met with collective nods of agreement. Each of them has etched their name into the annals of boxing history with undisputed legacies. Yet, it was the mention of Mike Tyson that seemed to stir the pot.

A user weighed in first, asserting, “The first 3 he was spot on I can live with that.” The undertone here seemed to be that while the initial trio was beyond reproach, Tyson’s placement was up for debate. Giving a different spin, another user opined, “Those are the fighters he was inspired by.” This perspective suggests that Jones Jr. might have created the list based on who inspired him and not the boxers’ accolades.

However, another person’s stark query cut through, “Mike Tyson!!! Who did he beat again?” Their comment alluded to a lingering sentiment among some fans, questioning the quality of opponents Tyson faced during his heyday.

Another fan, contributing to the dialogue, remarked, “Good list. So many greats. I’d say Jack Johnson over Tyson. He probably would too.” Their stance introduced another boxing legend into the mix, hinting that perhaps Tyson’s inclusion was more contentious than initially perceived.

Another keen observer’s comment encapsulated the broader sentiment, saying, “Was all going so well until he mentioned Tyson.” It was evident that while Jones Jr.’s list began on a universally agreeable note, Tyson’s mention ruffled a few feathers.

The world of boxing, rich in history and filled with legends, offers ample room for varied opinions. While Ali, Robinson, and Duran found nearly universal acclaim, Tyson’s inclusion brought to the fore a mélange of sentiments, from respect for his undeniable prowess to questions about his legacy.

Months After Record-Breaking $22.8 Million Gate, Gervonta Davis Branded the “Modern-Day Mike Tyson” by Roy Jones Jr.

As we mull over the fervent reactions and contrasting views, we can’t help but wonder: If you were to create your own list, who would be in your top four?

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Written by:

Mrinal Mishra is a Boxing writer at EssentiallySports, who is dedicated to covering live events with a special emphasis on influencer boxing events. With a focus on storytelling, Mishra strives to bring to light the stories of fighters that often go untold. As a big fan of Mike Tyson, Mishra believes that boxing will remain relevant for eternity, and he is committed to covering the sport with the respect and admiration it deserves.

Edited by:

Nidhi