15 Facts about Iron Mike: The Boxer Who Stunned the World

Mike Tyson. A name that needs no introduction. Known not only for his incredible victories in the ring but also for his bright and controversial personal life. He has been both a hero and an anti-hero, but always remained one thing—the most famous boxer of our time. Today, we recall 15 surprising facts about "Iron Mike" that reveal his life beyond the ring.

Mike Tyson. A name that needs no introduction. Known not only for his incredible victories in the ring but also for his bright and controversial personal life. He has been both a hero and an anti-hero, but always remained one thing—the most famous boxer of our time. Today, we recall 15 surprising facts about "Iron Mike" that reveal his life beyond the ring.

A Fight That Lasted Just 30 Seconds

In 1986, Tyson scored the fastest victory of his career. His opponent, Marvis Frazier, didn't even have time to understand what was happening before Tyson knocked him out after 30 seconds. Frazier, by the way, is the son of the legendary boxer Joe Frazier.

Tyson – A Vegan?

Yes, believe it or not, Mike became a vegan. Switching to a diet of spinach and celery helped him lose almost 50 kilograms. Who would have thought that the tough guy from the ring would one day give up meat?

Who Are You, Mike?

Tyson has often said that he doesn’t always understand who he is himself. His life began with a mystery—he learned the name of his biological father only at the age of 38, discovering it was Purcell Tyson, not the man Mike had known growing up.

The "Magic Boy"

As a child, no one would have believed that the overweight, shy boy with the nickname "Magic Boy" would become a boxer. He was too afraid to fight back against bullies who picked on him. But, as we know, such stories always have an unexpected twist.

Pigeons and the First Fight

Tyson’s love for pigeons is more than just a hobby. His first fight began when a bully cruelly killed one of his beloved birds. This angered Mike, and it was then that he truly fought back for the first time. Today, he owns more than 2,000 pigeons.

A Boxer Who Loves to Read

Surprisingly, while in juvenile detention, Tyson met a man who changed his life. Trainer Bobby Stewart made a deal with Mike: he would train him if Tyson started studying. Since then, Mike has developed a love for reading.

Three Marriages and Many Problems

Tyson has been married three times. His first marriage to actress Robin Givens ended in scandal: infidelity, fights, and a divorce that cost the boxer $10 million. His second marriage to pediatrician Monica Turner also didn’t last long. Only his current wife, Lakiha Spicer, seems to be content with her life with Mike.

Father of Eight Children

Tyson has eight children from different women. Unfortunately, one of his daughters, Exodus, tragically passed away in 2009 after becoming entangled in a treadmill cord.

Prison and a Controversial Conviction

In 1991, Mike was accused of raping 18-year-old "Miss Black America" Desiree Washington. Although there were many uncertainties in the case, Tyson was sentenced to six years in prison, of which he served three.

Conversion to Islam

During his imprisonment, Tyson, following the example of his idol Muhammad Ali, converted to Islam and took the name Malik Abdul Aziz. In 2010, he made a pilgrimage to Mecca and has since been actively involved in charity work.

Jewish Roots and a Possible Conversion

Few know that Tyson has Jewish roots. Last year, he even considered converting to Judaism. Mike was so inspired by a journalist that he planned to undergo a sacred circumcision. However, the idea faded before it could materialize.

Tyson and His Tattoos

Tyson’s tattoos are more than just decorations. Each one is symbolic: Mao Zedong, Che Guevara, a dragon, and even a portrait of his second wife. What’s hidden beneath his boxing trunks remains a mystery.

An Acting Career

Mike has appeared in over 40 films and TV shows. Almost always, though, he plays himself.

Tyson – The Spender

Despite his massive earnings, Tyson managed to rack up $13 million in debt. He once bought a Formula 1 car for a million dollars and spent another 1.5 million on diamonds the same day.

Retired in Las Vegas

Today, Mike leads a quiet life in a Las Vegas suburb. He goes to bed at 8 PM, wakes up at 2 AM, and takes care of his children. He has become a devoted family man, an active charity worker, and is considered a good guy now.

That’s Mike Tyson—a boxer who, despite all his ups and downs, remains a legend.