Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson: Triumph and Tragedy
In recent years, there have been few figures in the world of sports who have managed to gain a firmer hold of the public imagination than have Mike Tyson. One of the most intimidating boxers ever to take to the ring, Mike Tyson was often able to win the fight before it began; not many competitors relished the idea of going toe to toe with this man. He has done stints in prison, struggled with addiction and managed to make a scene whether in the ring or in his personal life.
Mike Tyson’s Rise to Stardom and the Heavyweight Championship
As a teen, Mike Tyson has multiple encounters with the law, having been arrested dozens of times. Finally, it was boxing which started to turn his life around. From his involvement in sports and more importantly, his relationship with his trainer Cus D’Amato he learned to focus on his goals – and his was winning. D’Amato was a father figure to the fledgling Tyson; and his death led to the unraveling of this American sports icon.other boxers of this man. He has done prison time, fought drug addiction and generally become infamous both in and out of the ring.
But all of this was still ahead of Tyson, who was quickly gaining a reputation as a fearsome puncher and a future champion. He disposed his first 19 opponents by knockout, the majority of which were finished in the first round. After winning the title, Tyson remained very active, defending his title and acquiring other title belts in quick succession. The man seemed to be unbeatable, and untouchable.
The Beginning of the End
It was the upset victory of James Buster Douglas (with 1-42 odds against him) in the tenth round of a brutal match which cost Tyson both his title belt and the impression that he simply could not be beaten. Before long, Tyson would be in prison, serving a sentence for a rape.
Once released, Tyson returned to boxing; something which boxing enthusiasts and gawkers alike had looked forward to. Tyson regained a title belt soon – but then he faced Evander Holyfield and was stopped in his tracks in the 11th round. In a rematch of the bout, Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear, a now infamous event. Tyson was disqualified, naturally. Since then there have been some comebacks and some crushing defeats, such as his loss to Lennox Lewis and Tyson is widely viewed as an athlete who has lost his drive and is merely desperate for money.
Mike Tyson Today
Currently, Mike Tyson is better known as a marginal celebrity who is frequently in rehab or being arrested. While comebacks are discussed from time to time, making many eager to see Tyson fight – or implode again, it is hard to say if a comeback is in the works. Tyson has stated that he is trying to mend his ways and expresses remorse for his misdeeds; but it is too early to say what the future may hold for this boxing legend.
