Mike Tyson’s journey to boxing stardom began with a humble start in his professional debut.
Facing Hector Mercedes in March 1985, Tyson, then just 18 years old, showcased his raw talent by swiftly dispatching his opponent in the first round.
Despite the electrifying performance, Tyson’s debut failed to attract a large audience, resulting in a loss for the promoter.
His earnings from the fight amounted to a modest $450, with his manager, Jimmy Jacobs, ensuring he walked away with $100 after deductions.
Reflecting on his early fights in his autobiography, Tyson revealed the financial struggles he faced, with minimal returns from his bouts.
However, as his reputation soared, so did his earnings, with lucrative paydays for high-profile matches against boxing legends like Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield.
For his bout against Lewis, Tyson pocketed an impressive $17.5 million, while his first encounter with Holyfield netted him a staggering $30 million.
Now, as he gears up for an exhibition bout against Jake Paul, speculation swirls around the potential purse, with estimates ranging from $20 million to a jaw-dropping $300 million.
While the exact figures remain uncertain, Tyson’s enduring legacy and enduring appeal ensure that any fight involving the boxing icon commands attention and generates considerable interest in the sporting world.