Mike Tyson lost a total of 6 fights in his professional boxing career. He was born on June 30, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, is a legendary American former professional boxer who competed from 1985 to 2005. Known for his ferocious and intimidating boxing style, Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at the age of 20. His career was marked by remarkable speed, strength, and knockout power, earning him the nickname “Iron Mike.” Tyson holds the record for being the first heavyweight boxer to simultaneously hold the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles. His career, however, was also marred by controversy, including legal issues and erratic behavior. Despite this, Tyson remains one of the most iconic and influential figures in boxing history.
- Buster Douglas (February 11, 1990): Tyson’s first loss was a significant upset in boxing history. He was defeated by Buster Douglas at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. Douglas, a 42-to-1 underdog, knocked out Tyson in the 10th round to win the undisputed heavyweight title.
- Evander Holyfield (November 9, 1996): Tyson faced Evander Holyfield, a fight that many had anticipated for years. Holyfield defeated Tyson by an 11th-round TKO in a bout for the WBA Heavyweight Championship.
- Evander Holyfield (June 28, 1997): In their much-anticipated rematch, known infamously as “The Bite Fight,” Tyson was disqualified in the third round for biting Holyfield’s ears. This was one of the most controversial moments in sports history.
- Lennox Lewis (June 8, 2002): Tyson challenged Lennox Lewis for the heavyweight title but was knocked out in the 8th round. This fight is often remembered for Tyson’s powerful performance in the early rounds before Lewis took control.
- Danny Williams (July 30, 2004): Tyson was knocked out in the 4th round by British boxer Danny Williams in another upset. This fight was held at the Freedom Hall State Fairground in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Kevin McBride (June 11, 2005): Tyson’s final professional fight was against Kevin McBride. Tyson retired on his stool at the end of the 6th round, signaling the end of an era in heavyweight boxing.
These losses marked significant points in Tyson’s career, showcasing not only the high level of competition he faced but also the personal and professional challenges he encountered inside and outside the ring. Tyson’s legacy in boxing remains that of a powerful and ferocious fighter, despite these defeats.