‘You Wanna Punch Me?’: When Khabib Nurmagomedov Tried to Set off Mike Tyson with Bold Statement

Published 08/18/2022, 6:30 AM EDT

Boxing legend Mike Tyson is considered to be one of the best boxers to ever step into the ring. However, there seemingly is one person who can match Iron Mike’s legacy, arguably even topping it. This legend is none other than Muhammad Ali, who many consider the greatest boxer of all time.

This included former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who stated that Ali was a level above Tyson. The Eagle made an appearance on Tyson’s podcast hotboxing and revealed that he considered Ali to be the best to ever do it.

Article continues below this ad

“I like Mike Tyson, but I think Muhammad Ali is the,” he said, using his hands to show he ranked Ali higher. Tyson also agreed with this and said, “Ali is the king”. However, Nurmagomedov did not look too sure about Tyson agreeing with this and asked Iron Mike if wanted to punch him.” You wanna punch me? Like I don’t think. Muhammad Ali, one step, one step.” He said.

Boxing Legend Mike Tyson Found in Sorry State at Miami International Airport Weeks after ‘Death’ Comments

The former UFC champ failed to realize that Tyson has always revered Ali and considered him an inspiration. Tyson has come out many times stating that Ali was the one who made him pick up the gloves and start boxing in the first place. This is not surprising, as many boxing legends cite The People’s Champ as their inspiration. Moreover, Ali’s legacy is not fully defined by his in-ring accomplishments, but also by the political and cultural impact he made during his time.

Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali

Every boxing fan has once imagined how a fight between Ali and Tyson would play out. The two greats defined boxing in their generation, carrying the sport to mainstream audiences. Moreover, their style could not be more different, as Ali was known for his evasive footwork while Tyson was a knockout artist who ended fights with just one punch.

Article continues below this ad

A fight between the two would eventually come down to who could use their style more effectively. However, this is a hypothetical scenario and fans will always be divided on who would win a match between the two icons, as should be the case.

Watch This Story: Five Infamous Altercations of Mike Tyson outside the Ring

Article continues below this ad

Who do you think will win in a fight? Let us know in the comments.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Sahil Sood is a Boxing writer at EssentiallySports. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication, and holds a keen interest in the 'sweet science'. His journey towards following boxing began when he first saw the highlights of Mike Tyson as a teenager, and then closely followed the rise of Floyd Mayweather.

Edited by:

Ajinkya Aswale

‘You Wanna Punch Me?’: When Khabib Nurmagomedov Tried to Set off Mike Tyson with Bold Statement

Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali

Trending

“He’s Not Stuck in Dubai”: Floyd Mayweather’s $30,000 Act of Kindness Towards Homeless Men in LA Raises Questions About Gervonta Davis’ Bombshell Claim

Boxing Insider Blows the Lid off Floyd Mayweather’s NBA Game Visit After Fans Discover “Forced” Picture in Dubai

Terence Crawford Responds to Kendrick Lamar’s Drake Diss Track With Bold Declaration

Canelo Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia Stats Comparison and Prediction: Record, Age, Height, Reach, Weight, and Knockout Ratio

“She’s a Sweetheart”: Jaime Munguia’s Wife Alejandra Steals the Show Ahead of Canelo Alvarez Showdown