THROWBACK: When Mike Tyson Almost Beat Up Michael Jordan

NBA legend Michael Jordan was once at an awkward dinner party. In fact, it turned out to be an awkward one due to a conversation with Mike Tyson. Jordan and Tyson were among the guests invited to an event celebrating the 28th birthday of Chicago Bears’ defensive end Richard Dent.

While taking a drink of his choice, Tyson suddenly started an unpleasant conversation with Jordan. The Chicago Bulls star obviously did not want to start a brawl with the boxing legend. Among the other guests at the event were Bears coach Mike Ditka, promoter Don King and Tyson’s co-manager Rory Holloway.

Holloway wrote about the incident in a memoir. “Mike Tyson’s sitting there with his drink of choice, a Long Island Tea, and when he drinks his real feelings come out,” he wrote.

“I’m telling the server to water his drinks down ‘cause I see where this is going. Mike stares across the table at Michael Jordan. He says, ‘Hey man, you think I’m stupid? I know you f—-d with my b—h.’

“It was a circus, for real, that night. Don King trying to change the subject. Me and John trying to hold Mike down. Mike telling everyone he’s going to bust Jordan’s ass. Jordan’s dressed sharp as always and he can’t get out of there fast enough.”

Michael Jordan and Mike Tyson: Legends of their sport

Both Jordan and Tyson entered their respective sport at a similar time and became absolute legends. At the time of the party, both were well recognized in their sport. Over the next few years, they would become popular all over the world.

In the final decade of the 20th century, Jordan achieved the kind of success that many athletes dream of. His Chicago Bulls built a dynasty in the NBA and won six titles in a span of eight years. Jordan’s popularity meant that the NBA was becoming popular all over the world.

Mike Tyson, meanwhile achieved similar success in the same era but in a different sport. He made his professional debut in 1985 as an 18-year old. He enjoyed success as an undisputed heavyweight champion and is one of the best all-time boxers.