History of Mike Tyson in Timeline
Michael Gerard Tyson, nicknamed "Iron Mike", "Kid Dynamite", and "The Baddest Man on the Planet", is considered one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. He competed from 1985 to 2005 and was the undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990. Tyson holds the record as the youngest boxer to win a heavyweight title, achieving this feat at 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days old. He is the first heavyweight boxer to simultaneously hold the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles and the only heavyweight to unify them consecutively. Tyson's career was marked by notable victories, including a 91-second knockout of Michael Spinks, and an unexpected defeat against Buster Douglas in 1990.
1959: Jimmy Kirkpatrick Moves to Brooklyn
Jimmy Kirkpatrick, the man Mike Tyson knew as his father, moved to Brooklyn in 1959.
1961: Birth of Rodney Tyson
Mike Tyson's brother, Rodney, was born around 1961.
1965: Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick Integrates Charlotte High School Football
In 1965, Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick, Mike Tyson's half-brother, helped integrate Charlotte high school football.
June 30, 1966: Birth of Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson was born on June 30, 1966, in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, New York City.
1981: Junior Olympics Gold Medal
Mike Tyson won his first gold medal at the Junior Olympic Games in 1981, defeating Joe Cortez.
1982: Second Junior Olympics Gold Medal
Mike Tyson won another gold medal at the Junior Olympic Games in 1982, defeating Kelton Brown.
1984: Tyson's Victories over Tillman and Stewart
Following his loss to Douglas, Tyson secured first-round knockout victories against Henry Tillman and Alex Stewart. The win over Tillman, the 1984 Olympic heavyweight gold medalist, was particularly significant as it allowed Tyson to avenge previous amateur losses to Tillman. These victories set the stage for an elimination match to regain the undisputed world heavyweight championship.
1984: Tyson and Lewis Spar
In 1984, as up-and-coming fighters, Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis sparred at a training camp. This meeting, arranged by Cus D'Amato, foreshadowed their future rivalry.
1984: Tyson's Victory over Tyrell Biggs
In October 1984, Mike Tyson emerged victorious against Tyrell Biggs, the 1984 Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist, with a TKO in the seventh round.
1984: Golden Gloves Championship
Mike Tyson won the gold medal at the Nation Golden Gloves in New York in 1984, defeating Jonathan Littles.
March 6, 1985: Professional Debut
Mike Tyson made his professional debut on March 6, 1985, defeating Hector Mercedes via first-round TKO.
November 1985: Death of Cus D'Amato
Cus D'Amato, Mike Tyson's trainer and mentor, died in November 1985.
1985: Spinks's Heavyweight Championship Win
In 1985, Michael Spinks won the heavyweight championship from Larry Holmes via a fifteen-round decision, although he was not officially recognized as champion by major boxing organizations.
1985: Mike Tyson's Professional Boxing Debut
In 1985, at the age of 18, Mike Tyson began his professional boxing career.
February 16, 1986: Nationally Televised Bout Against Jesse Ferguson
Mike Tyson's first nationally televised bout took place on February 16, 1986, against Jesse Ferguson, which he won by TKO.
November 22, 1986: First Title Fight and WBC Heavyweight Championship Victory
On November 22, 1986, Mike Tyson won his first title fight against Trevor Berbick, claiming the World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight championship. This victory marked Tyson's ascension as the youngest heavyweight champion in history at the age of 20 years and 4 months.
1986: Victory over Jose Ribalta
Mike Tyson fought and defeated Jose Ribalta in 1986, a fight Tyson later described as one of his toughest.
March 7, 1987: Tyson's Victory Against James Smith
On March 7, 1987, Mike Tyson secured a unanimous decision victory against James Smith in Las Vegas, Nevada. This win allowed Tyson to add the World Boxing Association (WBA) title to his existing WBC belt, intensifying the media frenzy surrounding "Tyson-mania."
1987: Release of Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!
In 1987, Nintendo released "Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!", a video game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was inspired by Tyson's impressive boxing skills, which had caught the attention of Nintendo of America president Minoru Arakawa. The game proved to be a commercial success, selling over a million copies.
1987: Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
Mike Tyson became the undisputed world heavyweight champion in 1987.
1987: WBA and IBF Title Wins
In 1987, Mike Tyson added the WBA and IBF titles to his collection after defeating James Smith and Tony Tucker, further solidifying his dominance in the heavyweight division.
January 22, 1988: Tyson Defeats Larry Holmes
On January 22, 1988, Mike Tyson faced legendary boxer Larry Holmes and defeated him by knockout in the fourth round. This marked the only knockout loss Holmes experienced in his 75 professional fights.
February 7, 1988: Marriage to Robin Givens
On February 7, 1988, Mike Tyson married actress Robin Givens, known for her role in "Head of the Class", at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Chicago.
June 27, 1988: Tyson's Knockout Victory against Michael Spinks
On June 27, 1988, Mike Tyson faced Michael Spinks in a highly anticipated and lucrative fight. Spinks, recognized by some as the true heavyweight champion despite not holding the major titles, presented a contrasting style to Tyson's. The bout ended swiftly with Tyson knocking out Spinks in the first round, a victory widely considered the peak of Tyson's boxing career and fame.
September 1988: Public Accusations on 20/20
In September 1988, Robin Givens publicly described her marriage to Mike Tyson as "torture, pure hell" during a joint interview on "20/20" with Barbara Walters, further fueling the controversy surrounding their relationship.
1988: Tyson's Personal and Professional Turmoil
In 1988, Mike Tyson faced increasing difficulties outside the ring, including a failing marriage with Robin Givens and disputes over his future contract involving Don King and Bill Cayton. This tumultuous period saw Tyson sever ties with manager Bill Cayton and fire long-time trainer Kevin Rooney, decisions that critics believed led to a decline in Tyson's boxing technique.
February 14, 1989: Separation from Robin Givens
Mike Tyson and Robin Givens officially separated on February 14, 1989, following Givens' allegations of abuse and Tyson's erratic behavior.
1989: Honorary Doctorate
Central State University awarded Mike Tyson an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters in 1989, acknowledging his hard work, determination, and perseverance.
1989: Tyson's Victories over Bruno and Williams
Despite personal turmoil, Mike Tyson had two fights in 1989. He faced Frank Bruno in February, winning by knockout in the fifth round despite being stunned by Bruno in the first. Later that year, Tyson defeated Carl "The Truth" Williams with a first-round knockout in July.
1989: Honorary Doctorate
Mike Tyson received an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Central State University in 1989.
February 11, 1990: Tyson's Upset Loss to Buster Douglas
On February 11, 1990, in a stunning upset, Mike Tyson lost the undisputed championship to Buster Douglas in Tokyo. Despite being a heavy betting favorite, Tyson struggled against Douglas's jab and ultimately suffered his first career knockdown, leading to a knockout defeat in the tenth round.
February 1990: Death of Denise Tyson
Mike Tyson's sister, Denise, died of a heart attack in February 1990 at the age of 24.
1990: Loss to Buster Douglas
In a stunning upset, Mike Tyson was knocked out by underdog Buster Douglas in 1990.
March 18, 1991: Tyson's Controversial Victory over Ruddock
On March 18, 1991, Mike Tyson faced Donovan "Razor" Ruddock, a formidable opponent known for his punching power, in Las Vegas. The fight was marked by back-and-forth exchanges until a controversial stoppage by referee Richard Steele in the seventh round declared Tyson the winner. This decision sparked outrage among fans, leading to a post-fight melee and highlighting the intensity of the contest.
July 1991: Tyson's Arrest for Rape
In July 1991, Mike Tyson was arrested for the rape of 18-year-old Desiree Washington in an Indianapolis hotel room. This event marked a significant turning point in Tyson's life and career, leading to a highly publicized trial.
November 8, 1991: Tyson Withdraws from Holyfield Fight Due to Injury
A highly anticipated fight between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield for the undisputed championship was scheduled for November 8, 1991, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. However, Tyson was forced to withdraw from the bout due to a rib cartilage injury sustained during training.
February 10, 1992: Tyson's Rape Trial Conclusion
Mike Tyson's rape trial, held at the Marion County superior court, concluded on February 10, 1992, following proceedings that spanned from January 26. The trial garnered substantial public attention and significantly impacted Tyson's public image.
March 26, 1992: Tyson Sentenced to Six Years in Prison
On March 26, 1992, Mike Tyson was sentenced to six years in prison with four years of probation following his conviction.
April 1992: Tyson Imprisoned at Indiana Youth Center
In April 1992, Tyson was incarcerated at the Indiana Youth Center (now Plainfield Correctional Facility).
1992: Conviction and Imprisonment
Mike Tyson was convicted of rape and sentenced to six years in prison in 1992.
1992: Death of Jimmy Kirkpatrick
Jimmy Kirkpatrick, Mike Tyson's father figure, died in 1992.
1994: Holyfield's Retirement and Comeback
Evander Holyfield retired in 1994 after losing his championship to Michael Moorer, but later embarked on a comeback journey.
March 1995: Tyson Released from Prison
Tyson was released from prison in March 1995 after serving less than three years of his sentence.
1995: Release from Prison and Comeback
Mike Tyson was released on parole in 1995 and began a series of comeback fights.
1995: Release of the Film "Tyson"
The biographical film "Tyson", directed by Uli Edel, was released in 1995, exploring the life of Mike Tyson from the death of his mentor, Cus D'Amato, to his rape conviction.
March 1996: Tyson Reclaims WBC Title
In March 1996, Tyson regained the WBC title with a third-round knockout victory against Frank Bruno.
November 9, 1996: Holyfield's Upset Victory over Tyson
On November 9, 1996, in a surprising upset, Evander Holyfield defeated Mike Tyson via TKO in the eleventh round, marking Holyfield's third heavyweight championship win.
1996: Reclaiming Heavyweight Titles
In 1996, Mike Tyson regained the WBA and WBC heavyweight titles.
April 19, 1997: Marriage to Monica Turner
Mike Tyson married Monica Turner on April 19, 1997, marking the beginning of his second marriage.
June 28, 1997: Tyson-Holyfield Rematch: "The Sound and the Fury"
On June 28, 1997, the highly anticipated rematch between Tyson and Holyfield, dubbed "The Sound and the Fury," took place. The event grossed $100 million, with Tyson receiving $30 million and Holyfield $35 million—the highest boxing purses at the time.
July 9, 1997: Tyson's Boxing License Revoked
On July 9, 1997, the Nevada State Athletic Commission revoked Tyson's boxing license, fined him $3 million, and ordered him to pay legal costs following the controversial rematch with Holyfield. This decision effectively prevented Tyson from boxing in the United States.
1997: Tyson vs Holyfield: The Ear Bite Incident
Mike Tyson's rematch with Evander Holyfield in 1997 ended in disqualification after he bit Holyfield's ears.
1997: Tyson Marries Monica Turner
Mike Tyson married Monica Turner in 1997. Their marriage lasted until 2003.
August 31, 1998: Tyson's Traffic Accident and Assault
Tyson was involved in a traffic accident on August 31, 1998, which led to an assault incident resulting in legal repercussions.
October 18, 1998: Tyson's Boxing License Reinstated
On October 18, 1998, the Nevada State Athletic Commission voted to reinstate Tyson's boxing license.
1998: Tyson's WrestleMania Appearance and DX Association
In 1998, Tyson made a guest appearance at WrestleMania XIV as an enforcer for the Shawn Michaels vs. Steve Austin main event and was an unofficial member of Michaels's D-Generation X stable. Tyson earned $3 million for his WrestleMania XIV appearance.
1998: Tyson's Comeback Fights and TV Guide Recognition
In 1998, Tyson made a successful comeback with fights against Peter McNeeley and Buster Mathis Jr., with the McNeeley fight being featured in TV Guide's "50 Greatest TV Sports Moments of All Time".
January 1999: Tyson's Controversial Victory Against Francois Botha
Tyson returned to the ring in January 1999, defeating Francois Botha in a controversial match marked by accusations of arm-breaking attempts and Tyson's abandonment of his signature bob and weave defense.
February 5, 1999: Tyson Sentenced to Imprisonment for Assault
Tyson was sentenced to one year imprisonment, a $5,000 fine, two years of probation, and 200 hours of community service for assaulting two motorists after a traffic accident on August 31, 1998.
October 23, 1999: Tyson's No Contest Bout with Orlin Norris
Tyson fought Orlin Norris on October 23, 1999, but the bout ended in a no contest after Norris suffered a knee injury from a late punch.
June 2000: Tyson's Post-Fight Interview after Knocking Out Lou Savarese
In a post-fight interview after knocking out Lou Savarese in 38 seconds in June 2000, Tyson made memorable comments.
June 2000: Tyson vs. Savarese
In June 2000, Mike Tyson fought Lou Savarese in Glasgow, winning in the first round. The fight was short, lasting only 38 seconds. Controversially, Tyson continued punching after the referee had stopped the fight.
2000: Tyson's Financial Turnaround
In 2000, Mike Tyson made significant changes to his financial management, dismissing his existing team and hiring new accountants. This resulted in a reported financial turnaround, going from a debt of $3.3 million to earnings of $65.7 million.
2001: Tyson vs. Nielsen
Mike Tyson fought Brian Nielsen in Copenhagen in 2001, winning by TKO in the seventh round. This marked one of Tyson's later victories in his boxing career.
January 2002: Divorce Filing
Monica Turner filed for divorce from Mike Tyson in January 2002, citing adultery as the reason for the separation.
January 22, 2002: Tyson-Lewis Press Conference Brawl
On January 22, 2002, a press conference to promote the anticipated fight between Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis erupted in a brawl involving both boxers and their entourages. This incident added to the hype and controversy surrounding the fight.
2002: Tyson Aims for Heavyweight Championship
In 2002, Mike Tyson had the opportunity to fight for a heavyweight championship against Lennox Lewis, who held the WBC, IBF, IBO, and Lineal titles. Tyson aimed to fight in Nevada but was denied a license due to facing potential sexual assault charges.
2002: Loss to Lennox Lewis
Mike Tyson fought Lennox Lewis for the world heavyweight title in 2002, losing by knockout.
January 14, 2003: Divorce from Monica Turner
Mike Tyson and Monica Turner's marriage ended in divorce on January 14, 2003.
February 22, 2003: Tyson vs. Etienne
On February 22, 2003, Mike Tyson defeated Clifford Etienne 49 seconds into the first round. The fight, held in Memphis, was preceded by concerns about Tyson's fitness due to rumors of partying and a new facial tattoo. This win marked Tyson's final professional victory.
August 13, 2003: Tyson Confronts Bob Sapp
On August 13, 2003, after Bob Sapp's victory against Kimo Leopoldo in Las Vegas, Mike Tyson entered the ring for a face-off with Sapp. K-1, a kickboxing organization, had signed Tyson, aiming for a fight between the two. However, Tyson's felony history prevented him from obtaining a visa to enter Japan, where the fight was planned. Despite exploring alternative locations, the fight never materialized.
August 2003: Tyson Files for Bankruptcy
In August 2003, despite earning millions during his boxing career, Mike Tyson filed for bankruptcy. Media reports at the time suggested he had accumulated substantial debt, highlighting the financial challenges he faced after his boxing career.
2003: Tyson's Divorce
Mike Tyson and Monica Turner divorced in 2003.
July 30, 2004: Tyson vs. Williams
On July 30, 2004, Mike Tyson faced British boxer Danny Williams in a comeback fight in Louisville, Kentucky. Tyson started strong, dominating the first two rounds. However, in a surprising turn of events, he was knocked out in the fourth round. It was later revealed that Tyson had torn a ligament in his knee during the first round, significantly impacting his performance. This loss marked Tyson's fifth career defeat.
June 11, 2005: Tyson vs. McBride
On June 11, 2005, Mike Tyson quit before the start of the seventh round in his fight against Kevin McBride. Tyson later revealed that he entered the fight for a payday, lacking the physical condition and passion for the sport. This loss contributed to Tyson's decision to retire from boxing.
2005: Retirement from Professional Boxing
Mike Tyson retired from professional boxing in 2005.
December 29, 2006: Arrest for DUI and Drug Possession
Mike Tyson was arrested on December 29, 2006, in Scottsdale, Arizona, on suspicion of DUI and felony drug possession after nearly colliding with a police vehicle.
2006: Tyson's World Tour
In 2006, to address financial difficulties, Mike Tyson announced a series of exhibition bouts called "Tyson's World Tour." His first fight was a four-round exhibition against Corey Sanders in Youngstown, Ohio. Despite being in good physical condition, Tyson appeared to hold back to prolong the exhibition, which was met with disappointment from fans. The remainder of the tour was canceled due to the negative reception.
2006: Cameo Appearance in "Rocky Balboa"
Mike Tyson made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2006 film "Rocky Balboa", adding a touch of realism to the boxing-themed movie.
January 22, 2007: Pleading Not Guilty
Tyson pleaded not guilty on January 22, 2007, to charges related to felony drug possession, paraphernalia possession, and two misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence of drugs.
May 5, 2007: De La Hoya vs. Mayweather Jr. Breaks Pay-Per-View Record
The pay-per-view buy rate record set by the Tyson-Holyfield rematch was surpassed on May 5, 2007 by the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight.
August 2007: Tyson's Guilty Plea
In August 2007, Mike Tyson pleaded guilty to drug possession and driving under the influence in Arizona. This legal trouble stemmed from an arrest in December, where he admitted to using cocaine and struggling with addiction. This incident highlighted Tyson's ongoing challenges with substance abuse.
September 24, 2007: Guilty Plea
Mike Tyson pleaded guilty on September 24, 2007, to charges of cocaine possession and driving under the influence, facing legal consequences for his actions.
November 2007: Conviction and Sentencing
In November 2007, Tyson was convicted of cocaine possession and driving under the influence, receiving a sentence of 24 hours in jail, three years' probation, and 360 hours of community service.
2007: Publication of "The Last Great Fight"
Joe Layden's book "The Last Great Fight: The Extraordinary Tale of Two Men and How One Fight Changed Their Lives Forever" was published in 2007, chronicling the lives of Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas before and after their memorable heavyweight championship fight.
2008: Premiere of Documentary "Tyson"
The documentary "Tyson", offering an intimate look into the life and career of Mike Tyson, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2008, garnering significant attention from critics and audiences.
2008: Tyson Documentary
In 2008, the documentary "Tyson" provided insights into Mike Tyson's life and career. In the film, he admitted to his lack of preparation and motivation during his fight against Kevin McBride.
May 25, 2009: Daughter's Accident
On May 25, 2009, Tyson's four-year-old daughter, Exodus, was found unconscious and tangled in a cord from an exercise treadmill.
May 26, 2009: Daughter's Death
Exodus Tyson passed away on May 26, 2009, from injuries sustained in a tragic treadmill accident.
June 6, 2009: Marriage to Lakiha Spicer
Eleven days after his daughter's death, on June 6, 2009, Mike Tyson married Lakiha "Kiki" Spicer in a private ceremony at the La Bella Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas.
November 11, 2009: Airport Scuffle
Tyson was arrested on November 11, 2009, after engaging in a physical altercation with a photographer at Los Angeles International Airport, though no charges were ultimately filed.
2009: The Hangover Film
In 2009, Mike Tyson appeared as himself in the comedy film "The Hangover."
July 2010: First Umrah Pilgrimage
Mike Tyson completed his first Umrah pilgrimage to Mecca in July 2010, a significant event in his Islamic faith.
March 2011: Appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Mike Tyson appeared on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" in March 2011 to discuss his Animal Planet series, "Taking On Tyson," and his efforts to improve his life through sobriety and a vegan diet.
June 12, 2011: Mike Tyson's Induction into International Boxing Hall of Fame
On June 12, 2011, Mike Tyson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame alongside Julio César Chávez, Kostya Tszyu, and Sylvester Stallone. In the same year, Bleacher Report excluded Tyson from its top 10 heavyweight list, arguing that he lost when facing elite fighters.
September 2011: Controversial Comments about Sarah Palin
In September 2011, Mike Tyson made crude and violent remarks about former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, drawing criticism from journalist Greta Van Susteren for his offensive language and depictions of interracial sex.
August 2012: Broadway Debut
In August 2012, Mike Tyson, in collaboration with Spike Lee, brought his one-man show, "Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth," to Broadway after its debut in Las Vegas.
February 2013: National Tour of "Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth"
In February 2013, Mike Tyson took his one-man show, "Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth" on a 36-city tour over three months, discussing his personal and professional life.
August 2013: Admission of Relapse
In August 2013, Mike Tyson publicly admitted to lying about his sobriety and confessed to being on the verge of death due to alcoholism, revealing a setback in his recovery.
November 2013: Comments on Religion
In November 2013, Mike Tyson made controversial statements about seeing "the devil" in churches and mosques, questioning organized religion.
November 2013: Publication of Mike Tyson's Autobiography, "Undisputed Truth"
In November 2013, Mike Tyson's autobiography, "Undisputed Truth," was published, achieving a spot on The New York Times Best Seller list. He received the Sportel Special Prize for the best autobiography at the Golden Podium Awards Ceremony.
November 16, 2013: Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth HBO Special
On November 16, 2013, Tyson's one-man show, "Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth," which had been touring nationally, aired on HBO.
December 2013: Embrace of Islam
In December 2013, Tyson revealed his gratitude for being Muslim and how Allah plays a significant role in his life, showcasing a shift in his spiritual perspective.
2013: Induction into Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame
Mike Tyson was inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2013, headlining the induction ceremony.
2013: Law and Order: SVU Appearance
In 2013, Mike Tyson made a guest appearance in a "Law and Order: SVU" episode, playing a death row inmate who was a victim of child abuse.
2013: Tyson's Autobiography: "Undisputed Truth"
In his 2013 autobiography, "Undisputed Truth," Mike Tyson made startling revelations about his past, including using his then-wife Monica Turner's urine to pass drug tests. He was married to Turner from 1997 to 2003. He also admitted to using his infant's urine for the same purpose, highlighting the lengths he went to conceal his drug use.
October 27, 2014: Mike Tyson Mysteries Premiere
On October 27, 2014, "Mike Tyson Mysteries" premiered on Adult Swim, featuring Mike Tyson voicing a fictionalized version of himself solving mysteries.
March 2015: Mike Tyson Joins "Ip Man 3" Cast
In late March 2015, Mike Tyson was confirmed as a cast member in the film "Ip Man 3," which also starred Donnie Yen.
March 2015: Collaboration on Madonna's "Iconic"
In early March 2015, Mike Tyson was featured on the track "Iconic" from Madonna's "Rebel Heart" album.
March 25, 2015: Start of Filming for Ip Man 3
Filming for "Ip Man 3" began on March 25, 2015, with Mike Tyson joining the cast alongside Donnie Yen, who reprised his role as Ip Man.
December 16, 2015: Ip Man 3 Premiere
"Ip Man 3," starring Donnie Yen and Mike Tyson, premiered in Hong Kong on December 16, 2015.
2015: Support for Donald Trump
Mike Tyson announced his support for Donald Trump's presidential campaign in 2015, a move that attracted both support and criticism.
2015: Induction into Southern Nevada Hall of Fame
In 2015, Mike Tyson was inducted into the Southern Nevada Hall of Fame along with four other individuals connected to Southern Nevada.
August 2016: Filming of "Girls 2: Girls vs Gangsters"
Filming for "Girls 2: Girls vs Gangsters," featuring Mike Tyson as "Dragon," took place from July to August 2016 at various locations in Vietnam.
January 2017: Launch of YouTube Channel
Mike Tyson launched his YouTube channel in January 2017, partnering with Shots Studios to produce comedic content including sketches and parodies.
May 2017: Publication of "Iron Ambition"
Mike Tyson published his second book, "Iron Ambition," in May 2017, detailing his time with trainer and surrogate father Cus D'Amato.
October 2017: Face of Ultra Tune
Mike Tyson was announced as the new face of the Australian car servicing franchise, Ultra Tune, in October 2017, succeeding Jean-Claude van Damme.
January 2018: Ultra Tune Ad Debut
Mike Tyson's first television commercial for Ultra Tune aired in January 2018 during the Australian Open, though it faced criticism and was labeled as "sexist," even by Tyson himself.
February 2018: Mike Tyson's Attendance at MMA Tournament in Chelyabinsk
In February 2018, Mike Tyson attended an international mixed martial arts tournament in Chelyabinsk, Russia. He remarked on the kindness and sensitivity of the Russian people compared to Americans' lack of similar experiences.
March 2018: Release of "Girls 2: Girls vs Gangsters"
The film "Girls 2: Girls vs Gangsters," starring Mike Tyson, was released in March 2018.
May 12, 2020: Mike Tyson Hints at Boxing Comeback on Instagram
On May 12, 2020, Mike Tyson posted a video on his Instagram showing his training regimen, hinting at a possible return to boxing with the statement, "I'm back."
May 23, 2020: Mike Tyson's AEW Debut at Double or Nothing
Mike Tyson debuted in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) at the Double or Nothing event on May 23, 2020. He assisted Cody in defeating Lance Archer and presented him with the inaugural AEW TNT Championship.
July 2020: Mike Tyson Signs Contract to Fight Roy Jones Jr.
In July 2020, Mike Tyson signed a contract for an eight-round exhibition fight against former four-division world champion Roy Jones Jr. The fight, sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission, was initially scheduled for September 12 but was postponed to November 28.
July 2020: Launch of Mike Tyson's Legends Only League
Mike Tyson launched the Legends Only League in July 2020, partnering with Sophie Watts and Eros Innovations. The league provides opportunities for retired professional athletes to compete again in their respective sports.
October 2020: Release of "Mike Tyson" Dance Single
Tiki Lau released the dance music single "Mike Tyson" in October 2020, which features vocals from Mike Tyson.
November 28, 2020: Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. Exhibition Fight
On November 28, 2020, Mike Tyson fought Roy Jones Jr. in an eight-round exhibition match at the Staples Center. The fight was declared a draw, with judges scoring it 76-76, 79-73 for Tyson, and 76-80 for Jones. This event was the first produced under Tyson's Legends Only League and became the highest-selling pay-per-view event of 2020.
March 2021: Announcement of Scripted Series "Tyson"
In March 2021, a scripted series about Mike Tyson's life and career, titled "Tyson" and starring Jamie Foxx, was announced, with Antoine Fuqua directing and Martin Scorsese executive producing.
April 7, 2021: Mike Tyson's Return to AEW
Mike Tyson returned to AEW on the April 7, 2021, episode of Dynamite, rescuing Chris Jericho from an attack by The Pinnacle. He physically confronted Shawn Spears, protecting Jericho.
May 25, 2021: Premiere of "Mike Tyson: The Knockout"
A two-part documentary, "Mike Tyson: The Knockout," premiered on ABC on May 25, 2021, exploring Tyson's life and career.
June 7, 2021: Appearance on "Hell's Kitchen"
On June 7, 2021, Mike Tyson and his family appeared as VIP guests on the 300th episode of "Hell's Kitchen" during the opening dinner service of Season 20.
2021: Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer Ads
Mike Tyson appeared in advertisements for Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer in 2021.
April 20, 2022: JetBlue Flight Altercation
On April 20, 2022, Tyson was involved in an altercation on a JetBlue flight where he punched a fellow passenger who had been harassing him, an incident that sparked public debate about appropriate responses to harassment.
August 6, 2022: Tyson Criticizes Hulu Series "Mike"
Mike Tyson publicly criticized the Hulu biographical series "Mike" on August 6, 2022, stating that Hulu had "stolen his story" without his consent, further expressing his disapproval with the statement, "I'm not a n****r you can sell on the auction block."
August 25, 2022: Mike Tyson's Cameo in "Liger"
Mike Tyson made an extended cameo appearance in the Telugu-Hindi movie "Liger", released on August 25, 2022.
December 2022: Umrah with DJ Khaled
Tyson undertook another Umrah pilgrimage in December 2022, accompanied by DJ Khaled, reaffirming his commitment to Islam.
November 2023: Criticism over Alleged Donation to Israeli Defense Forces
Mike Tyson faced criticism and scrutiny in November 2023 after attending a fundraising event for the Israeli Defense Forces, sparking controversy due to his past statements about Palestinians and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
2023: Rape Allegation and Lawsuit
An unnamed woman filed a $5 million lawsuit against Mike Tyson in 2023, alleging that he raped her in his limousine in the early 1990s, a serious accusation that Tyson has denied.
March 2024: Tyson's Ring Return Announcement
In March 2024, Mike Tyson announced his plans for a return to the boxing ring, setting the stage for his upcoming fight against Jake Paul.
April 29, 2024: Tyson-Paul Fight Sanctioned
On April 29, 2024, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) sanctioned the fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul as a professional boxing match. This decision added legitimacy to the bout and fueled anticipation among boxing fans.
July 20, 2024: Tyson vs. Paul
On July 20, 2024, Mike Tyson is scheduled to make a return to the ring, facing Jake Paul in a heavyweight bout. The fight is set to take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, marking a significant event in both Tyson's later career and Paul's rise in the boxing world.
2024: Planned Return to Boxing
Mike Tyson is scheduled to make a return to boxing in 2024.