Despite $3 Million Fine After Biting Evander Holyfield’s Ear Off, Mike Tyson Reveals Why It Was The Best Thing He Ever Did

It has been around 26 years since one of the most infamous events that shook the boxing world and brought worldwide attention to the sport took place. It was the time when Mike Tyson bit off a part of Evander Holyfield‘s ear. This shocking and bizarre event took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Moreover, the incident took place in the third round of the highly anticipated WBA Heavyweight Champion rematch, and it left an indelible mark on the history of sports.

The build-up to the moment was nothing sort of amazing as well. After losing the first fight via stoppage in the 11th round even after being the clear favorite, Tyson was undoubtedly ready to give it his all in the rematch. As the duo went at it the following June, the boxing legend lost his cool during the third round after being headbutted by Holyfield. As soon as the two clinched next, ‘Iron’ Mike used the opportunity to bite the champions’ ears and even took a chunk out of his ear. This resulted in him losing the fight via disqualification and even led to a post-fight brawl. Not only that but the Brooklyn native had to pay a $3 million fine as well. However, the former champion doesn’t regret his actions one bit.

Mike Tyson doesn’t regret taking a bite of Holyfield’s ear

The incident is surely etched in the minds of boxing fans and will likely be remembered throughout boxing history. Moreover, Tyson still gets criticism for his actions back then. Not only that but the youngest heavyweight champion in the world has also profusely expressed how sorry he felt for the incident. However, as he recently did an interview with ES News he proclaimed that this was one of the best things he ended up doing from a business perspective.

Elie Seckbach asked Tyson about the staggering amount of fine he had to pay. He also asked if that was the “biggest fine probably in history”, Tyson didn’t appear regretful of his actions. He said, “I’ll tell you something that’s really funny, and I don’t mean this in bad taste. But that’s the best thing I ever did, bite his ear. Not that I wish I bit his ear, but from a business perspective. Yeah, it was. I never even think about it. However, I think about how much money that I made from taking pictures of biting people that it supersedes the $3m that I lost.”

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Tyson has managed to turn such an event into a successful business enterprise. He even launched his own ear-shaped edibles called ‘Mike Bite’. He has also revealed that Holyfield is his business partner now. It’s safe to say that they don’t hold any ill feelings towards each other anymore. However, Tyson’s answer was still surprising to hear. What do you think about Tyson’s statement? Do share your thoughts in the comments.

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