BOXING icon Mike Tyson has offered insights into the potential of enduring one of his punches, suggesting that a “normal person” could withstand it if they approached it without fear of death.
Renowned as one of the most brutal and powerful hitters in the sport, Tyson made history as the youngest world champion at the age of 20.
However, his career also endured significant challenges, including a period of incarceration following a rape conviction.
After serving three years in jail, Tyson returned to the ring in 1995, reclaiming his WBC title belt from Frank Bruno.
With a total of 58 fights, Tyson emerged victorious in 50, including an impressive 44 by knockout.
In a candid conversation with comedian and actor Kenan Thompson, Tyson delved into the psychological aspect of taking one of his punches, emphasizing the role of mental preparation over physical prowess.
He remarked, “What is a normal person? It has nothing to do with being an athletic person, it’s about your morale.
Fighting has a lot to do with morality too. It’s not about taking it, it’s the willingness to die, that’s what life is. When you stand up to it you no longer have to fear it.”
Despite his reputation as one of the most feared individuals in the world, Tyson admitted to struggling with nerves before each fight, suggesting that nervousness is a natural defense mechanism that must be confronted.
Reflecting on his own experiences, he stated, “I never thought I could handle being a fighter. It just was. I’ve never been able to handle it. You always get nervous. I’m nervous now.
That’s just part of life. I believe from my experience that the feeling is a natural defence mechanism. You rise to the occasion or you freeze. You learn to deal with that.”
Tyson’s storied career saw further drama in 1997 when he infamously bit off part of Evander Holyfield’s ear during a match.
Despite retiring from professional boxing 15 years ago, Tyson made a return to the ring in 2020, facing Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition bout that ultimately ended in a draw.