Mike Tyson is the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing. Furthermore, he has etched an ineffaceable legacy in boxing. Therefore, his words carry immense weight in the sport. However, in a recently resurfaced video, we see an agitated ‘Iron Mike.’ This is because of an unusual comparison that irked the legend. The interviewer asked Mike about Floyd Mayweather placing himself above Muhammad Ali when it comes to boxing prowess.
As we all know, ‘Money’ fought and beat some of the best in his era, including Canelo Alvarez, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, and Manny Pacquiao. However, critics argue that he often fought opponents past or not yet in their prime. On the other hand, Ali dominated the most menacing era in the heavyweight division. He beat champions like Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman. For many boxing fans, unlike Mayweather, Ali fought opponents at the peak of their careers. Speaking of which, Mike went to the extent of calling Mayweather “delusional.” Moreover, fans have supported the opinion of ‘Kid Dynamite.’
Why did Mike Tyson call Mayweather ‘delusional’?
Floyd Mayweather made a bold statement about Ali in an interview a couple of years ago. He said, “Is Ali the same fighter that got beat by a fighter with seven fights? Leon Spinks beat Muhammad Ali when he only had seven fights. We’re just telling the truth. Next.”
When the question of comparing Mayweather and Ali was posed, Tyson almost lost his cool. He responded by saying, “He’s very delusional. He can’t listen. Um, if he was anywhere near that realm of greatness, like Ali, he’d be able to take his kids to school by himself. Okay, he can’t even take his kid to school by himself, and yet he’s talking about how he’s great. Greatness is not about guarding oneself from the people…” Furthermore, fans too have an array of opinions on Mike’s response.
Starting the discussion, a fan claimed that Mike has some serious “jealousy and envy issues” against Floyd Mayweather.
Another fan opined that he doesn’t think it’s jealousy. According to him, Mike has always been protective of his idol, Ali. Furthermore, he also added the Larry Holmes incident as an example.
Next, a user resonated with Mike’s stance and said that Ali’s greatness and reverence transcends beyond boxing.
However, another fan had a contrary opinion. According to him, Tyson was a hater and it needed no further explanation.
Furthermore, a fan added a historical insight by saying that anyone that followed Mike, knows the amount of respect and high regard he has for Ali.
Fans are divided on Tyson’s comments. Some accuse him of jealousy, while others agree with his reverence for Ali. Tyson’s words spark a debate on what defines a boxing legend.