Boxing legend and arch-nemesis of Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, has expressed his skepticism over a potential trilogy with his rival. The heavyweight has criticized Tyson for picking to fight Roy Jones Jr as he believes it should have been him. Speaking to The Sun, the 58-year-old had a lot to say about the event and Tyson.
About the choice of opponent, Holyfield said, “You can’t risk the fact Mike chose to fight him first, it should’ve been me first I believe.”
The Holyfield trilogy would have arguably received more attention and publicity. In a stunning blow to boxing fans the world over, The ‘Real Deal’ added that Mike Tyson fighting Jones could rule out any trilogy fight between them. This despite ‘Iron Mike’ claiming that he will continue fighting after this event.
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Holyfield said, “And it’s kind of muddy the waters. My whole thing is if they fight first, I just don’t think there will be a second match with me – my third match with Mike. Because it doesn’t matter because there won’t be anything left in Mike.”
Certain sections of boxing fans may see ‘The Real Deal’s comments as an effort to get ‘Iron’ Mike to call him out next.
Holyfield said that it would have been a better spectacle if he was to fight Mike Tyson. “People don’t just want to pay for the sake of it, people want to see something interesting.”
He added, “I really think that between Mike and myself that I would like to be first, because at our ages you may only get a one shot and never get another shot. I’m 58, he’s 54! I have to be first not the second.”
READ: Evander Holyfield Teases Trilogy fight against Mike Tyson
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Who is Evander Holyfield backing in the fight?
Despite providing bad news to some fans who would have hoped for the trilogy, Holyfield provided his views on the mega fight. He thinks Roy Jones Jr has faster hands, but Mike Tyson has more power. If the fight turns into a slug-fest, Tyson has the advantage; if Jones Jr can box him out, he could win.
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Though Holyfield may have been a more marketable opponent for Mike Tyson, the prospect of seeing the legend of the sport back in the ring is exciting. If the 54-year-old decides to fight again after this event, it will be hard to overlook Holyfield. Do you think the two will get back in the ring for the trilogy?