The name of former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is forever synonymous with the sport of boxing. The legend has won many hearts, including that of hip hop’s crown prince, Marshall Mathers AKA Eminem. Previously, Eminem had spoken about his adoration for the former champ.
Eminem was a guest at the ‘Hotboxin with Mike Tyson’ podcast in 2020. The podcast which was hosted by Tyson and Eben Britton also had rapper Denaun Porter in attendance.
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In conversation, an emotionally charged Eminem opened his heart about his respect for the champ. He said, “Bro, you are like a god to me. I, bro, you’ve done so much in your life, man. That’s like just so crazy to be the heavyweight champion and 20, 20 years old.”
‘Iron’ Mike responded by telling Eminem that he was equally good at what he does. Hearing Tyson’s words, he added, “It takes a lot to be the champ. It takes a lot.”
He also spoke about watching Tyson fight as a kid. Eminem said, “When I was younger. When you were first like starting to pop to really pop. I had heard about, ‘Yo you seen this guy Mike Tyson? Man, he’s knocking m************ out in like 10 seconds.”
‘Slim Shady’ also mentioned the first fight of Tyson that he saw against Trevor Burbank. Moreover, Eminem even added that he marveled at Tyson’s ability to knock down Burbank three times with one punch.
Mike Tyson, the ‘God’ of boxing
Tyson is considered one of the most eccentric and memorable stars in the history of boxing. The sheer dedication he had for the sport made him a household name.
Tyson, under Cus D’Amato’s tutelage, made his pro debut on March 6, 1985. The then 18-year-old impressed boxing fans with his stellar performance against Hector Mercedes.
Tyson’s cutthroat aggression and sheer power in the ring earned him cult status and respect in the hearts of fans worldwide. However, his opponents did not receive the same love as they were left with painful memories of their tango with ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’.
In fact, at one point in time, it was considered a badge of courage to step in the ring with a prime ‘Iron’ Mike.
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The scintillating performances did not just earn Tyson the respect of fans. It was also a major boost to his wallet. In his prime, Tyson was considered one of the highest-paid heavyweights at that time. This also paved the way for some exorbitant displays of wealth.
With his larger-than-life persona both in the ring and outside, Tyson is sure to be remembered for ages to come.
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