Mike Tyson had a sensational win-to-knockout ratio which sent shockwaves through the sport during his prime.
‘Iron’ Mike burst onto the heavyweight scene during the mid 80’s, making his professional debut in the spring of 1985 when he was just 18-years-old.
He won his first 19 career outings via stoppage, with 12 of these coming in the opening round. He captured world honours for the first time just 1-year after of his debut when he knocked out Trevor Berbick in the second round of their 1986, becoming the WBC heavyweight champion and the youngest ever heavyweight champion.
Tyson’s reign as world champion lasted four years, where he defeated the likes of Michael Spinks, Frank Bruno and Larry Holmes. Victories over WBA champion James Smith and IBF champion Tony Tucker saw ‘Iron’ Mike become the undisputed heavyweight champion before he was eventually beaten by Buster Douglas in a monumental upset.
One fighter who actually got the better of Tyson was Irishman Kevin McBride, who beat the heavyweight icon back in 2005. Despite being victorious over ‘Iron’ Mike, McBride once paid homage to his thunderous punching power.
Speaking to Bloody Elbow, McBridge claimed that he can still feel the incredible power of ‘Iron’ Mike, 20-years since they faced each other.
“Mike Tyson’s power is unbelievable. I still feel it to this day, more than 19 years later.
“He hits so hard and power is the last thing to go. George Foreman proved that against Michael Moorer. Sure he was a bit younger than Mike is now but power-wise it is one of the biggest punches in history.”
Tyson made a sensational yet controversial return to boxing last November when he was beaten by Jake Paul at the AT&T Stadium in Texas after a frustrating eight round contest which has received criticism from fans and pundits globally.
