In the boxing world, comparisons to legends are both a tribute and a bold claim. Isaac Cruz, fresh from a significant victory, did just that. He recently defeated Rolando Romero, clinching the WBA junior welterweight title. His win wasn’t just a triumph; it was a statement.
Cruz’s aggressive style was similar to Mike Tyson’s. So, he took to Instagram, posting a side-by-side image with Tyson. This act of homage has ignited conversations. But what does comparing oneself to a legend truly entail? Is it a sign of confidence or a step too far?
Is Issac Cruz the Mexican Mike Tyson reborn?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Isaac Cruz showcased his dominance in the ring by stopping Rolando Romero in the eighth round. Following this impressive victory, Cruz turned to Instagram. He posted a collage of himself and Mike Tyson in a basic guard, captioning it “Mexican Mike Tyson”. This gesture of admiration quickly caught the eyes of the boxing community.
Notably, boxing journalist Michael Benson shared a screenshot of Cruz’s post on his Twitter, highlighting the homage paid by Issac Cruz to the legendary Mike Tyson. The post quickly sparked a range of reactions from fans across social media platforms.
There’s only one Iron Mike!
First up, a user humorously dismissed Issac Cruz’s comparison, suggesting the boxer was overly ambitious in likening himself to Tyson.
Bro thinks he’s Mike Tyson 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/h17pp44Bn2
— RacistCommunist (@Jordanooo17) April 4, 2024
Following closely, another echoed this sentiment, implying Issac Cruz’s self-comparison was far-fetched with a similar dose of humor.
He thinks he’s him 😭 pic.twitter.com/4DvLZProip
— 𝙊𝙬𝙚𝙣 (@owen02_) April 4, 2024
On a more analytical note, one observer pointed out that adopting Tyson’s signature fighting stance or employing basic defensive moves does not equate to embodying Tyson’s unique prowess in the ring. This perspective underscores the distinctive qualities that made Tyson an unparalleled figure in boxing history.
Using a peek a boo stance or a basic guard doesn't make you Tyson.
— David Cole 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇨🇦🥊🥊🥊🥊 (@DavidJ_Cole) April 5, 2024
Meanwhile, a different user was more direct in their critique, emphasizing that there’s only one Mike Tyson, and attempts to emulate him are bound to fall short, highlighting the uniqueness of Tyson’s legacy. This view suggests a recognition of Tyson’s exceptional place in boxing that can’t simply be replicated by adopting similar styles or tactics.
Only Mike Tyson is @MikeTyson. You can try to copy but you can never emulate.
— Jack Kid (@JackKidBoxing) April 4, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Amidst the critiques, there was a voice calling for moderation, acknowledging the homage while gently reminding others to take it in stride.
I mean, chill. But yeah cool.
— Jay Chaudhry (@producer_jayc) April 5, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
From skepticism to humor, and calls for a balanced perspective, the responses highlight the deep respect fans hold for Mike Tyson and his place in boxing. Can paying homage to a legend like Tyson inspire current athletes like Issac Cruz to reach new heights?