10 COUNT

TYSON’S TOILS

We list 10 of the most controversial moments in the career of ‘Iron’ Mike

1. RAPE SENTENCE

In 1992, Tyson was sentenced to six years in jail after being convicted of rape. The sentence was later reduced to three years and he still pleas his innocence.

2. BITE FIGHT

During his 1997 rematch with Evander Holyfield, Tyson bit off part of his adversary’s ear and was disqualified.

3. IMPETUOUS

After flattening Lou Savarese, Tyson launched a rant against Lennox Lewis: “My style is impetous, my defence is impregnable, I’m just ferocious. I want your heart, I want to eat his children.”

4. UNDER THE INFLUENCE

In retirement, Tyson admitted that he competed in several fights while under the influence of cocaine, claiming that he used a fake penis to fool drug testers.

5. MARRIAGE TO GIVENS

In an interview with Barbara Walters in 1989, Tyson’s then-wife Robin Givens described their relationship as “torture” and spoke of her fear. She later divorced Mike.

6. ANOTHER BITE

A press conference for Tyson’s fight with Lennox Lewis descended into a brawl, resulting in Mike allegedly biting Lewis’ leg before shouting at reporters.

7. THREATENING RUDDOCK

Prior to his fight with Razor Ruddock, Tyson said that if “he doesn’t die, it doesn’t count.”

8. FACE TATTOO

In 2003, Tyson unveiled a facial tattoo surrounding his left eye. Now, it has become an indelible part of his image and brand.

9. MAO TATTOO

Upon his release from prison it became apparent that Tyson had a tattoo of former Communist leader Chairman Mao on his right bicep.

10. PET TIGERS

He once owned three Bengal tigers, which reportedly cost him over $200,000 a year in food alone.