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What if a world-class boxer competed inside a cage instead of a ring? Often, it has been a matter of debate for combat sports enthusiasts and fans. Especially when Floyd Mayweather matched up with Conor McGregor, many wondered how the fight would have turned out had the two fought in MMA and not boxing. Well now, the former world heavyweight champion, Mike Tyson, answers how ‘Iron’ himself would do in the UFC?

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“I don’t know what I would do in the UFC. Because I watched the UFC a couple of times and I watch these guys step on people’s feet. And I have the worst feet in the world.”

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“If somebody stepped on my feet, I would totally tap out. I would give up; it would be a no-brainer,” he added.

Well, given the information about Tyson’s weak feet, here are some ways you could defeat the ‘Kid Dynamite’ in a full-fledged brawl.

Go Takeru Segawa on Mike Tyson and chop his legs out

Having well observed how Tyson fights, we would advise you to not let ‘Iron’ get inside of your reach any time possible. Maintaining his high peekaboo guard, Tyson would often bend like a windshield on a rainy day. While he moves forward with his top guard and aggressive movement, simply circle him out and soak him with a few inside low kicks. Tyson would be relentless and also fast, therefore do not waste an iota of your time. Keep placing your head outside the center line and chop his lead leg every time he leans.

Considering the amount of power Tyson can generate, it would be intelligent of you to not try to box. Focus on the low kicks and if you are accurate, soon Tyson’s legs will give out and he will consequently fall. An ideal example would be Israel Adesanya fighting Romero or Costa in the UFC. However, in proximity, leg kicks can often be countered by the cross or the straight hand. Keep this in mind, hide your chin, and move away, ducking Tyson’s approaching punch.

Keep your head off the center-line like Dominick Cruz skating on canvas

Tyson loved throwing the uppercut, the body hook, and a circling lead hand. However, all these are round punches, and for Tyson to connect any of these would require him to stand in proximity with you. Therefore, have quick movements and be elusive with your feet.

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Dominick Cruz from the UFC had one of the best footwork in the game. He was literally the least-tagged fighter in his prime. One of the most scientific fighters of his era, Cruz understood body movement exceptionally well. He fought with his hands low. However, that he diligently avoided the center-line, his low guard barely annoyed or taxed him in his fights.

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So, be like Cruz. Mix it up, stay always busy on your feet. Tyson often fought with some sort of impulsion. Having missed a couple of times, he will definitely feel the frustration and eventually disclose the openings.

And, of course, get conditioned!

See, fighting Tyson is no small matter. You will not only play with fire but also try to tame it. Keep in mind that he has an unparalleled ring IQ and will come all prepared. Therefore, having good conditioning will help you last longer and even survive a few of Tyson’s hits.

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