Mike Tyson returned to boxing after nearly two decades, facing YouTuber and boxer Jake Paul in a historic match. Although the 27-year-old Paul claimed victory against the 58-year-old Tyson, the former champion’s comeback left a lasting impression.
Beyond the anticipation surrounding his fight, Tyson received support from former rivals and friends Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield. Both legendary boxers attended the event to show their backing for the ex-champion.
However, following the fight, the excitement of seeing Tyson back in action seemed to inspire Holyfield.
In a post on his official Instagram account, Holyfield surprised fans with a direct proposal: a third fight between the two, completing the trilogy fans have awaited for years.
“The fans want it 🥊. #unfinishedbusiness,” wrote Holyfield on Instagram, accompanied by a promotional image of himself versus Tyson with the headline “The Trilogy.”
For his part, “Iron” Mike Tyson did not hesitate to respond to his former rival and now friend, Evander Holyfield:
“I love you brother, but the trilogy is our friendship,” Tyson replied on Instagram.
This exchange has sparked an intense debate among fans, rekindling memories of the two iconic fights between Tyson and Holyfield.
The first clash occurred on November 9, 1996, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Nevada. In a masterful performance, Holyfield defeated Tyson by technical knockout in the 11th round, seizing the WBA title.
For Mike Tyson, this loss was a significant blow, marking only the second defeat of his professional career.
The rematch took place on June 28, 1997, again at the MGM Grand, in an event initially titled “The Sound and the Fury” but ultimately known as “The Bite Fight.”
The WBA Heavyweight Championship was on the line, but what transpired that night became one of the most iconic and controversial moments in professional boxing history.
In a dramatic third round, Tyson bit Holyfield’s right ear, tearing off a piece of cartilage and spitting it onto the canvas. Despite widespread outrage, the referee allowed the fight to continue with a two-point penalty.
However, Tyson repeated the act, this time biting Holyfield’s left ear, leading to his immediate disqualification and chaos in the ring.
According to Tyson, the bite was an impulsive reaction to frustration and Holyfield’s repeated headbutts, one of which had caused a cut over his eye.
Despite his explanations, many critics argued that Tyson seemed unable to overcome Holyfield in the ring and resorted to desperate measures.
Years after that chaotic night, the two boxers moved past their rivalry and developed a friendship based on mutual respect.
Holyfield’s recent proposal for a trilogy has revived nostalgia for one of boxing’s most legendary rivalries.
Whether in the ring or beyond, the relationship between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson continues to captivate the boxing world.
Mike Tyson leaving a comment on Evander Holyfield’s Instagram post calling for a trilogy fight today… pic.twitter.com/iDotCRFd4h
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) November 18, 2024
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