Mike Tyson on Hardships of Believing in Yourself: “Everybody Else Say You Are a Piece of S**t”

In a revealing episode of ‘Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson,’ Mike Tyson and Antonio Tarver share deep truths. They talk about the mental battles athletes face. How hard is it to believe in yourself when the world doubts you? Tyson knows this all too well. So does Tarver. Both faced immense criticism in their careers.

Yet, they stood tall. Tyson openly discusses the struggle of self-belief amidst negativity. Tarver nods, sharing his own battles. He never fully celebrated his victories, overshadowed by excuses. Do they have any advice for the upcoming fighters?

Can you believe in yourself when the world doesn’t? Mike Tyson thinks so

Diving right into the heart of their conversation, Antonio Tarver initiates with thoughtful advice for fighters. “So I just would advise every fighter just to work on yourself, man, and be the best that you can be and be ready for whatever,” he says, setting a tone of self-improvement and resilience. This advice, born from years in the ring and from facing politics within the sport, underscores the importance of personal growth and preparedness.

Mike Tyson, reflecting on Tarver’s words, shifts the focus to the mental aspect of self-belief. “You know how hard it is to believe in yourself when everybody else says you are a piece of sh*t, everybody, you got to believe in yourself,” Tyson interjects, laying bare the emotional toll of external criticism. Tarver agrees, offering a glimpse into his own challenges. “Yeah, I’ve had to do that, and you got to understand, man, I really haven’t had a chance to celebrate my victories because every time it’s met with excuses, you see what I’m saying,” he shares.

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Their exchange, candid and raw, paints a vivid picture of the hurdles athletes like them face. It’s not just the physical battles within the ropes but also the psychological wars against societal expectations and self-doubt.

In the same podcast, they discussed Bernard Hopkins’ last loss. Here’s what they had to say!

Tarver suggests Hopkins’ ending got what it deserved

In an engaging segment on DJ Whoo Kid’s show, the conversation took a turn toward Bernard Hopkins’ unforgettable final fight. DJ Whoo Kid initiated the topic with a touch of regret, “I don’t like the way Bernard Hopkins…the way he ended his s**t.” Antonio Tarver quickly labeled the moment as “That’s Karma though,” sparking interest. Mike Tyson, intrigued, interjected, “Who knocked him out?” Amidst some confusion, Tarver provided clarity, “It was Smith. Smith from New York,” referring to Joe Smith Jr.

Whoo Kid, recalling the knockout’s severity, prodded Tyson, “Didn’t see that Mike?” Tyson confessed, “I don’t know,” prompting further discussion on the event’s nature. Tarver reinforced, “Smith from New York I think knocked him out the ring,” with Whoo Kid concluding the topic, “That was ugly.” This candid exchange highlighted the perceived karmic justice of Hopkins’ career conclusion.

Also Read: George Foreman’s Unbreakable Record Has Mike Tyson In Disbelief to Date

Do you believe in the concept of karma within the realm of sports? What do you think—does the universe always find a way to balance the scales?