Mike Tyson is one of boxing’s most iconic and feared heavyweights.
Known for his explosive power, blistering hand speed, and intimidating aura, ‘Iron’ Mike became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at age 20 and unified the division in his prime.
But by the mid-2000s, years of personal struggles, prison time, and battles with addiction had taken a visible toll on his career.
In 2005, Tyson entered what would be his final pro fight – ignoring the Jake Paul comeback last year – against Irish-American journeyman Kevin McBride. Though past his prime, Tyson was still a major name, and McBride – largely unknown – was expected to be little more than an opponent.
McBride had no major wins on his record and had already racked up several losses, but he had size and stamina on his side.
Tyson started strong, bullying McBride in the early rounds with head movement and powerful punches. But as the fight wore on, the former undisputed champ visibly faded.
He became sloppy, leaned heavily on McBride – who would retire in 2011 with a modest record of 35–10–1 and never fight for a world title – and even tried to break his arm in a clinch. At the end of round six, Tyson sat on his stool and refused to continue. In the ring post-fight, he admitted he had no desire to keep fighting and was only doing it for money.
“I got the ability to stay in shape, but I don’t got the fighting guts I don’t think anymore… I’m just sorry I let everyone down, I don’t have this in my heart anymore.
“I’m just fighting to take care of my bills basically, I don’t have the stomach for this anymore, I’m more conscious of my children and those guys, I’m looking at my opponents, I just don’t have that ferocity, I’m not an animal anymore.”
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