Even years after he parted his ways from the boxing world, Mike Tyson remains one of the greatest boxers to have ever stepped foot into the ring. Since the beginning of his career, Tyson was slated to greatness as he knocked down one opponent after another. Moreover, he remained undefeated for the first five years of his career. So what brought an end to the force called ‘Tyson’?
Tyson managed to become the youngest heavyweight champion in the world. However, it was James ‘Buster’ Douglas who brought down the heavy hitter back in back in 1990. Speaking on the tragic loss, here’s what Mike Rashid had to say.
Mike Rashid says he can knock Mike Tyson out in round 1
In an interview, Mike Rashid, a power bodybuilder, author, online fitness guru, and a personal friend of the boxing legend, was asked about facing Mike Tyson inside the ring in his prime. Rashid responded sarcastically, stating, “One. I’d knock him out in one round.” Despite the sarcasm, Rashid quickly expressed deep admiration for Tyson and called him one of his idols before revealing a personal admiration for the boxing icon.
“When Mike Tyson lost to Buster Douglas, I cried,” Rashid confessed. “I was so pissed; I ran in my room, literally laid face down in my pillow, weeping. That’s how important he was to me—still is to this day.” This emotional connection highlights Rashid’s profound love and respect for Tyson.
Transitioning from fan to friend, Rashid acknowledged the privilege of considering Tyson, both a “brother and a friend.” He called Tyson the “perfect heavyweight”, adding, “Nobody beats Mike in his prime, nobody.”
This insight into Rashid’s perspective not only emphasizes the immense influence Tyson had on him but also underscores the unwavering respect he holds for the boxing legend.
Tyson vs. Douglas: the match that shook the world
On February 11, 1990, Buster Douglas achieved a monumental victory, creating a legendary upset in the realm of sports. The highly unexpected outcome unfolded in Tokyo during the 10th round of the world heavyweight championship bout against the undefeated Mike Tyson.
Tyson, boasting an impressive record of 37 wins, all but three by knockout, had never tasted defeat and had never been knocked down. The unexpected turn of events occurred when Douglas, considered a massive underdog, unleashed a series of punches that sent Tyson to the canvas.
The decisive moment arrived when Tyson was unable to rise before the referee’s 10-count, leading to an astonishing and unexpected victory for Douglas. Transitioning from a near defeat in the eighth round, where Tyson’s right uppercut briefly sent Douglas to the mat, the underdog demonstrated resilience by getting up at the count of nine.
