Top 5 Most Violent Mike Tyson Knockouts

Mike Tyson is set to make his return to boxing with an exhibition bout against fellow legend Roy Jones Jr. ‘Iron’ Mike last stepped under the bright lights all the way back in 2005 and he’s back at the age of 54. However, combat sports fans still fondly recall the heyday of the ‘Baddest Man on the Planet’.

Tyson has a notorious reputation for pure violence and ferocity that even the new school fans have heard of. During his prime, it seemed as though there was no man alive who could tame the beast that was Tyson. As he prepares for his return to boxing, let’s take a look at some of his most lethal KO’s through the years.

Mike Tyson decapitates Michael Spinks

‘Iron’ Mike was truly on top of his game on the night he completely shut-down the lineal champion, Michael Spinks. Chiefly, Tyson had his fair share of trouble outside the ring and there were many questions surrounding the 21-year-old. However, he would put all concerns to bed after a show-stopping performance that lives on in infamy.

Mike Tyson blew Spinks out of the water in just 91 seconds after putting forward his patented pace. He dropped Michael Spinks in twice, with the second blow being fatal to Spinks’ consciousness. The post-fight celebration was yet another reason to marvel at Tyson.

Mike Tyson closes the show on Trevor Berbick

Mike fulfilled his destiny of becoming the youngest heavyweight champion when he flatlined Trevor Berbick in November 1986. His power was on full display as he threw the kitchen sink at the champion. After somehow surviving an early second-round knockdown, Trevor wouldn’t be so lucky with the next barrage.

Trevor Berbick’s footing betrayed him when Tyson landed a fight-finishing hook. Fight fans knew that this moment was a sign of things to come.

‘Iron’ Mike sparks veteran Larry Holmes

Post-prime Larry Holmes had the unfortunate task of trying to stop a prime Mike Tyson right in his tracks. This assignment would be too much for the veteran to handle. He was far out of his depth in the match-up. Mike dropped Holmes onto his back with a fight-ending blow to the dome that would have put down an elephant. Chiefly, this was truly a passing of the torch in the sports’ history.

Tyson floors Francois Botha in violent fashion

Mike Tyson faced Francois Botha after a lengthy suspension that temporarily halted his meteoric ascension. ‘Iron’ Mike looked rusty, to say the least as he lost the first four rounds on the scorecards. However, the start of the fifth brought back his violent streak, and he blasted Botha to the canvas and secured a highlight-reel KO.

Mike Tyson decimates Clifford Etienne in Round 1

Although Tyson was heading into the final phase of his career, he managed to turn back the clock against Clifford Etienne. ‘The Black Rhino’ folded like a lawn chair in front of Mike Tyson’s brutal right hand. What’s more, the KO marked the final one of his illustrious career and came in a matter of just 49 seconds. It stands as Tyson’s sixth-fastest KO on the record books.