“Don King Was His Demise”: Years After Mike Tyson Lost His $400 Million Fortune, Fans Try to Make Sense of What Went Wrong in Boxing Legend’s Life

The name Mike Tyson resonates with power and controversy in boxing history. His career was a mix of triumphs, tragedies, and scandals. Further, behind the scenes, Don King, the infamous promoter, influenced Tyson’s life. Many think King caused Tyson’s downfall. But how did Tyson lose his $400 million fortune? His relationship with King may hold the answers.

The Tyson-King story is one of ambition, betrayal, and greed. Fans still try to understand what went wrong with one of boxing’s most significant. Let’s explore their complex relationship and uncover the truth.

The fall of Mike Tyson: A plethora of opinions

People intensely debate Don King’s influence on Mike Tyson’s career. Tyson said, “This is supposed to be my ‘black brother,’ right? He’s just a bad man, a real bad man. He would kill his own mother for a dollar. He’s ruthless, he’s deplorable, he’s greedy, and he doesn’t know how to love anybody.” Tyson’s words in a recent interview show a relationship full of mistrust.

Further, Cus D’Amato‘s death removed stability from Tyson’s life. Many believe he could have prevented Tyson’s mistakes and financial downfall. Moreover, Kevin Rooney, too, shaped Tyson’s career. Tyson regretted leaving Rooney but held a grudge over a lawsuit. Rooney’s training brought early success. Tyson’s split with Rooney and alignment with King changed his career. Fans see Rooney’s positive influence and have their diverse opinions about his fall.

Michael Patmas reflects on the profound impact of Cus D’Amato’s death on Tyson, stating, “The death of Cus D’Amato had a huge impact on Mike. Mike was a sensitive, lonely, guy who never had a father. Cus was his father so to speak. He kept him on the right path. Without Cus, money, drugs and an out of control lifestyle caused Mike to flame out earlier than he otherwise would have. He could have been champion longer.”

Richard Stettenbenz adds, “Douglas fought a brilliant tactical fight against Mike but Tyson’s loss of D’Amato/Rooney coupled with the exposure & influence of Givens & King certainly helped drag Mike down. He went from a pretty darned good combination boxer to a one punch swinger. Adios, Miquel.” Jor Fu believes, “Don king was his demise.. rooney left and cus died.. all down hill.. he was trained so well that it took a while before he took his first loss to buster douglas.”

Further, Peter Stuurman succinctly puts it as, “Don king marriage his bookkeepers, short temper.” Jarret McKnight focuses on Tyson’s work output, saying, “Work load. Mike’s output was far greater than anyone he faced. Especially as a heavyweight. Therefore, his peak was automatically going to be shorter. Perhaps, if Rooney would’ve remained in his corner he’d have squeezed out a few more prime year, however his peak was inevitably always gonna be short, outside circumstances notwithstanding.”

Read More: “Better Pray You Don’t Come Across With Him Anytime Soon”: Boxing World Warns a Fan for Taking Photos of Evander Holyfield’s Ear, Bitten by Mike Tyson 26 Years Ago, Without Permission While Sitting Behind Him at Spence vs. Crawford

Mike Tyson and Don King’s relationship is complex and controversial. It’s tied to significant events like the loss of Cus D’Amato. This story raises questions about trust, loyalty, greed, success, and failure. The story of Iron Mike and King still intrigues and inspires. Fans and followers ponder the lessons and reflect on Tyson’s legacy. What do you think about Tyson and King’s relationship? Share your opinions below.

Watch This Story: Robin Givens: Mike Tyson’s Fiercest Opponent Yet