Former rivals turned friends, Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson, are still considered as one of the greatest rivalries in heavyweight boxing history. Infamously known as 'The Bite' fight, here are 5 intriguing facts about Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson 2.
Prior to the fight, Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson 2 didn't go by the moniker 'The Bite' fight until Tyson bit Holyfield's ear. It was originally billed as 'The Sound and The Fury.'
'The Bite' fight was originally scheduled for May 3, 1997. However, 'Iron Mike' suffered a cut over his left eye during training. Thus, the fight was postponed until June 28 of that year.
Mitch Halpern, who officiated the first fight, was chosen as the referee for the rematch. However, Tyson's camp protested and asked the Nevada State Athletic Commission that Halpern be replaced. Thus, Mills Lane was brought in as a late replacement as the referee.
After Tyson bit off Holyfield's right ear, 'The Real Deal' required eight stitches.
In 1997, 'The Bite' fight was awarded the 'Fight of The Year' accolade by 'The Ring' Magazine.