Former World heavyweight champion Mike Tyson knows a thing or two about mega-fights.
During a career spanning more than twenty years, Tyson became one of the highest paid athletes in the world, claiming the heavyweight crown three times in a career that was as successful as it was controversial.
This past weekend, his namesake – Tyson Fury – returned to action following a two-and-a-half year lay-off, stopping un-fancied Albanian cruiserweight Sefer Seferi in four rounds in Manchester.
Fury, whose exile from the ring was fraught with alcohol and drug problems, has been very vocal in calling out the top names at heavyweight upon his return.
While the self-styled ‘Gypsy King’ attracted criticism for his choice of comeback opponent, ‘Iron’ Mike believes that Fury has what it takes to topple the leading heavyweights in the world: most notably, WBC champion Deontay Wilder.
“I think he could beat Deontay Wilder.” Tyson told Bad Left Hook.
Judging on his performance this past weekend – his first back in the ring after shedding over 100lbs in weight – it would seem that the road back to the top will be a slow and steady one for Fury.
However, that has not stopped Tyson giving the Brit the edge over ‘The Bronze Bomber’ should the two face-off in the ring – citing the 6ft 9″ Mancunian’s size and awkwardness as key to any potential bout.
“He’s just made for the guy, you know what I mean? Tyson’s very awkward, (Wilder’s) not used to fighting a guy that awkward or that big either.”
It remains to be seen whether Fury will reclaim his place on top of the heavyweight scene, but a ringing endorsement from Mike Tyson shows that his return will most certainly force boxing fans to sit-up and take notice…