Mike Tyson is regarded as one of the most powerful boxers in history. He destroyed boxers with his huge knockout power and speed. His journey has, however, been touched significantly by personal tragedies.
It began when he lost his mother in 1982. Three years later, his promoter and trainer, Cus D’Amato passed away. Cus took Tyson under his wing and mentally prepared him to become the most dominant boxer ever. He played an instrumental part in molding the young Tyson. The death of Cus brought about another terrible loss for him.
The most painful incident happened in 2009. Exodus, Tyson’s daughter, unfortunately, perished in a terrible accident. He suffered a significant loss that left him with deep scars that he never fully recovered. Tyson had countless accolades to his name, which he earned as a boxer. However, the frequent departures of the most significant individuals in his life left an enduring mark on his soul.
Tyson, who was never one to hold back, became brutally honest in his interviews about his deep grief and pain. The fierce boxer acknowledged his distress in one of these old interviews. “I wish one of you guys had children…,” he said. “… if I could kick them in the f**king head or stomp on their testicles for you to feel my pain. Because that’s the pain I have waking up everyday.”
Boxing legend Mike Tyson’s eclectic career
Unlike the older days, 57-year-old Mike Tyson is more at peace with his demons than two decades ago. Tyson, who had plummeted his financial position with extravagant spending during his glory days, has stabilized himself with new business ventures and the cannabis company he founded in 2015.
Tyson’s imposing and aggressive approach intimidated his opponents. However, his openness and vulnerability regarding his personal troubles showed the human side of a guy who endured great suffering and loss all of his life. Even though Mike Tyson was a fierce competitor in the ring, his words serve as a reminder that even the most courageous warriors can harbor severe emotional scars.
