“I Was So Happy”: Drawing Parallels With Mike Tyson, Jai White Reveals Why He Was Delighted About Iron Mike Biting Evander Holyfield’s Ear

June 28th this year marked the 25th year anniversary of a shocking incident that is etched in the history of the sport of boxing. As Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield came face-to-face for their highly anticipated rematch, the stakes were high as well as the pressure on the two. Tyson’s journey to this point had been tumultuous. From a shocking defeat to Buster Douglas in 1990 to a prison stint in 1992, Tyson’s career was marred by controversy.

Moreover, as the bout approached, Tyson harbored a burning desire for revenge. The rematch at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas promised a riveting spectacle. Holyfield, once again, asserted his dominance, leaving Tyson in a diminished state. In an unexpected turn, Tyson’s desperation reached a boiling point during a clinch. In an act that stunned the audience, he infamously bit off a piece of Holyfield’s ear, forever branding the event as “The Bite Fight.” Undoubtedly a shocking event, however, for Michael Jai White, it was the best thing ever.

Michael Jai White reveals why he was happy when Mike Tyson bit off Holyfield’s ear

Recently, in an interview with VLADTV, Michael Jai White shared his thoughts on the infamous fight. He claimed that he thinks Holyfield did indeed headbutt Tyson intentionally. Expressing his elation, Jai White discloses, “I told you I was the happiest guy in the world at the time.” His delight stemmed from the authenticity of Tyson’s actions aligning with his portrayal in a movie. White explains, “I was so happy that Tyson did that because that’s the guy I was playing.”

Contrary to some opinions that Tyson wouldn’t exhibit such behavior, White emphasizes, “But I felt like Tyson and I had that same kind of berserk kind of temper.” This insight allowed him to accurately capture the essence of Tyson’s character, bringing a genuine portrayal to the screen. Reflecting on his own temperament in the movie Tyson, White affirms, “That was totally me. I was just like that.” It appears the incident allowed him to prove to his peers that his portrayal of Tyson was accurate. So why did the boxing legend bite Holyfield’s ear? Here’s what ‘The Real Deal’ has to say about that.

Holyfield reveals the reason behind Tyson’s actions

The aftermath was profound, with Tyson handed a suspension until 1999. Holyfield, though retaining his WBA title, bore the physical scars of ear damage. The Nevada State Athletic Commission, in response to Tyson’s appeal, controversially reinstated his license in October 1998. According to Holyfield, the bout was a test of mental fortitude.

Tyson, expecting fear, resorted to desperate measures. “He thought I was gonna be scared. So, when I caught him that shot, he bit the other one,” recounted Holyfield. Tyson, later admitting his desire to quit, revealed to Holyfield his readiness to do anything for an escape.” He said, “I’d rather be out of here than be in there with him,” disclosed Holyfield.

Read More: 16 Years After Infamous Probe, Hollywood Celeb Shares His Take on Whether Evander Holyfield Was on PED’s

Since then Holyfield has forgiven the legend and has even joined hands with him on a business venture. What do you think about the incident that shook the boxing world? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.

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