Major Controversies Surrounding Mike Tyson: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Mike Tyson—discover key moments of controversy.

Michael Gerard Tyson, an American former professional boxer, is considered one of boxing's all-time greats. Known as "Iron Mike" and "The Baddest Man on the Planet," he reigned as the undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990. Tyson is remembered as one of the most intimidating figures in boxing history.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1989: Erinn Cosby Accuses Tyson of Sexual Assault

In 1989, Erinn Cosby, the daughter of comedian and actor Bill Cosby, publicly accused Mike Tyson of sexually assaulting her, although no criminal charges were ever sought.

1990: Tyson Loses to Buster Douglas

In 1990, Mike Tyson lost the undisputed heavyweight championship to Buster Douglas, which was considered a major upset in boxing history.

March 18, 1991: Controversial Victory Against Donovan Ruddock

On March 18, 1991, Mike Tyson faced Donovan 'Razor' Ruddock in Las Vegas. Tyson won the fight due to a controversial stoppage by referee Richard Steele in the seventh round, leading to a melee among the audience and the referee needing to be escorted from the ring.

July 1991: Tyson Arrested for Rape

In July 1991, Mike Tyson was arrested for the rape of 18-year-old Desiree Washington at the Canterbury Hotel in Indianapolis. He was charged with multiple offenses carrying a maximum sentence of 63 years.

February 10, 1992: Conviction on Rape Charges

On February 10, 1992, Mike Tyson was convicted on rape charges.

March 26, 1992: Tyson Sentenced to Prison

On March 26, 1992, Mike Tyson was sentenced to six years in prison and four years of probation for rape.

1992: Tyson Convicted of Rape

In 1992, Mike Tyson was convicted of rape and sentenced to six years in prison.

1992: Tyson Required to Register as Sex Offender

In 1992, due to his conviction, Mike Tyson was required to register as a Tier II sex offender under federal law.

November 9, 1996: Loss to Evander Holyfield

On November 9, 1996, Mike Tyson faced Evander Holyfield in a title bout in Las Vegas. Holyfield defeated Tyson by TKO in the eleventh round, becoming the second boxer to win a heavyweight championship belt three times. Allegations of Holyfield's headbutts during the fight marred the victory.

June 28, 1997: Tyson vs Holyfield Rematch

On June 28, 1997, Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield fought in a highly anticipated rematch called 'The Sound and the Fury' at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The event grossed $100 million, with Tyson receiving $30 million and Holyfield $35 million. The fight had a record 1.99 million pay-per-view buys.

July 9, 1997: Revocation of Boxing License

On July 9, 1997, the Nevada Athletic Commission rescinded Mike Tyson's boxing license, fined him US$3 million, and ordered him to pay legal costs.

1997: Tyson Disqualified for Biting Holyfield's Ears

In 1997, Mike Tyson was disqualified in a rematch against Evander Holyfield for biting Holyfield's ears.

August 31, 1998: Assault on Motorists

On August 31, 1998, Mike Tyson assaulted two motorists after a traffic accident, leading to legal problems.

January 1999: Fight Against Francois Botha

In January 1999, Mike Tyson fought Francois Botha, resulting in controversy. Tyson allegedly attempted to break Botha's arms during a tie-up. He ultimately knocked Botha out in the fifth round. Tyson also launched into an expletive-laden tirade on WWOR-TV, cutting the interview short.

February 5, 1999: Sentenced for Assault

On February 5, 1999, Mike Tyson was sentenced to a year's imprisonment, fined $5,000, and ordered to serve probation and community service for assaulting two motorists.

October 23, 1999: Fight Against Orlin Norris

On October 23, 1999, Mike Tyson fought Orlin Norris after his release from prison. Tyson knocked down Norris after the bell, injuring Norris's knee. The bout was ruled a no contest.

June 2000: Fight Against Lou Savarese

In June 2000, Mike Tyson fought Lou Savarese in Glasgow, winning in the first round in just 38 seconds. Tyson continued punching after the referee stopped the fight, knocking the referee to the floor. Tyson then called out Lennox Lewis.

January 22, 2002: Brawl at Press Conference

On January 22, 2002, Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis and their entourages were involved in a brawl at a New York press conference to publicize their planned fight.

August 2007: Tyson Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges

In August 2007, Mike Tyson pleaded guilty in an Arizona court to drug possession and driving under the influence following a December arrest where he admitted to using cocaine and being addicted to the drug.

2013: Tyson Admits to Using Wife's Urine for Doping Tests

In his 2013 autobiography "Undisputed Truth", Mike Tyson admitted to using his then wife, Monica Turner's, urine to pass doping tests.

August 6, 2022: Tyson accuses Hulu of stealing his story

On August 6, 2022, Mike Tyson publicly criticized Hulu for creating a biographical drama about his life without his consent, stating "Hulu stole my story" and telling the service that "I'm not a n****r you can sell on the auction block."