Mike Tyson's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Mike Tyson.

Mike Tyson, an American former professional boxer, is considered one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. Known as "Iron Mike," he became the youngest heavyweight champion at 20 years old. Tyson unified the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles, marking a significant achievement. He was known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, winning his first 19 professional fights by knockout. A notable upset occurred when he lost the undisputed heavyweight championship to Buster Douglas in 1990.

Sections (7)

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

November 22, 1986: Wins WBC Heavyweight Championship

On November 22, 1986, Mike Tyson won his first title fight against Trevor Berbick for the WBC heavyweight championship, becoming the youngest heavyweight champion in history.

1986: The Ring Magazine's Fighter of the Year

In 1986, Mike Tyson was named The Ring magazine's Fighter of the Year.

March 7, 1987: Title Defense Against James Smith

On March 7, 1987, Mike Tyson defended his title against James Smith, winning by unanimous decision and adding Smith's WBA title to his collection.

1987: Addition of WBA and IBF Titles

In 1987, Mike Tyson added the WBA and IBF titles to his WBC title, solidifying his status as a dominant force in boxing.

1987: Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion

In 1987, Mike Tyson became the undisputed world heavyweight champion, solidifying his place as a dominant force in boxing.

January 22, 1988: Defeats Larry Holmes

On January 22, 1988, Mike Tyson faced Larry Holmes and defeated the former champion by KO in the fourth round, marking a significant victory.

June 27, 1988: Defeats Michael Spinks

On June 27, 1988, Mike Tyson faced Michael Spinks, knocking him out in 91 seconds, marking the pinnacle of Tyson's fame and boxing ability.

1988: The Ring Magazine's Fighter of the Year

In 1988, Mike Tyson was named The Ring magazine's Fighter of the Year for a second time.

1989: Honorary Doctorate

In 1989, Mike Tyson was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters by Central State University.

1989: Honorary Doctorate from Central State University

In 1989, Mike Tyson was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Central State University, recognizing his achievements and impact.

March 1995: Release from Prison

In March 1995, Mike Tyson was released from prison after serving less than three years of his six-year sentence.

March 1996: Tyson Regains WBC Title Against Frank Bruno

In March 1996, Mike Tyson regained the WBC title by defeating Frank Bruno via a third-round knockout, marking another milestone in his boxing career.

1996: Regaining WBA and WBC Titles

In 1996, Mike Tyson regained the WBA and WBC titles, joining a select group of boxers who reclaimed a heavyweight championship after losing it.

1998: Ranking in "The Greatest Heavyweights of All-Time"

In 1998, The Ring magazine ranked Mike Tyson at number 14 on the list of "The Greatest Heavyweights of All-Time".

2002: Ranking in The Ring magazine's list

In 2002, Mike Tyson was ranked at number 72 in The Ring magazine's list of the 80 Best Fighters of the Last 80 Years.

2003: Ranking in The Ring magazine's list of 100 greatest punchers

In 2003, Mike Tyson was ranked number 16 on The Ring magazine's list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.

March 2011: Appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show

In March 2011, Mike Tyson appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to discuss his new reality series and improvements in his life, including sobriety and a vegan diet.

June 12, 2011: Induction to the 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.

November 2013: Publication of Undisputed Truth

In November 2013, Mike Tyson's autobiography, Undisputed Truth, was published and appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list. He also received the Sportel Special Prize for the best autobiography.

December 2013: Gratitude for Islam and Sobriety Progress

In December 2013, Mike Tyson expressed gratitude for being a Muslim and discussed his progress with sobriety, attributing it to being in the company of good people.