Boxing legend Mike Tyson defined what it meant to be a heavyweight boxer during his prime. While the former champion was not the largest in his division, he was certainly the most skilled. He used his smaller size to gain a speed advantage over his opponents and used his agility and power to decimate any man put in front of him. This is the reason many shorter fighters consider his fighting style as a blueprint for their own success.
Moreover, it seems that his fighting style has even transcended boxing, with him now also being an inspiration for actor Scott Adkins. In the exhilarating world of John Wick: Chapter 4, the martial artist and actor took on a unique role as the German head of the High Table, the formidable crime boss known as ‘Killa Harkan’. However, what sets his character apart is his fighting style. For this, Adkins turned to none other than ‘Iron’ Mike, paying homage to his fighting style and basing his character on it.
Scott Adkins reveals he used Mike Tyson as an inspiration for his fighting style
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In an interview with ScreenRant, the actor revealed that he needed to sell the moves of his character. However, what sets his character apart is not only his imposing presence but also the inspiration behind his fighting style. Adkins turned to none other than boxing legend Mike Tyson, paying homage to the raw power and intensity that Tyson brought to the ring. However, the extensive prosthetics and the weight of the fat suit influenced Adkins’ approach to the action sequences where he used ‘Iron’ Mike’s style as a blueprint.
“It’s not just me in a fat suit. We wanted to sell that this guy is heavy and it is hard for him to move around. Yet in his past life, he used to be this deadly assassin himself and he knows how to throw down. So we came up with a kind of Mike Tyson style to the way he fights, but he can still bring it out when it counts. We didn’t want to do a load of triple kicks and everything,” he said.
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By incorporating Tyson’s fighting style into the character, Adkins adds an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the film. As the franchise continued to captivate audiences worldwide, the innovative tribute to Tyson’s combat prowess has undoubtedly played a part in its phenomenal success.
John Wick breaks $400 million in box-office earnings
The portrayal of ‘Killa Harkan’ by Adkins and his tribute to Tyson’s fighting style, proved to be a winning combination for the movie. The film has achieved tremendous success at the box office, surpassing the $400 million mark in worldwide earnings, as reported by IMDbPro. Moreover, it looks like the creative team has figured out a formula for the franchise to make it work for four installments.
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Audiences have been captivated by the dynamic fight sequences, intricate storytelling, and incredible performances of the cast, including Adkins’ embodiment of the menacing crime lord.
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What did you think about Adkins basing his character’s fighting style on Mike Tyson? Were you able to spot the resemblance while watching the movie? Tell us in the comments below.
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