Upsetting News at Mike Tyson’s Championship Fight Forever Changed Charles Oakley’s Dynamic With Michael Jordan

The Chicago Bulls were the most dominant team back in the era of Michael Jordan. Winning six championships, the team is regarded as one of the best of all time in the NBA. However, before Jordan become the ruler, the Bulls were struggling. At this time, His Airness needed a protector. And he got one right in time in Charles Oakley. However, some news during a Mike Tyson fight knocked out their relationship.

Oakley spent his first three seasons with MJ and the Bulls. In his rookie year, Jordan picked up an injury that kept him out for the majority of the season. But as soon as the pair took to the court, they connected. From there, Jordan and Oakley established a bond between them. Games of ping pong and hanging out became a daily routine for the two. However, their bond took a major hit when an unfortunate report came out.

While attending a fight between Mike Tyson and Leon Spinks in 1988, Oakley found out about his trade. And MJ wasn’t happy.

How a Tyson fight hurt Michael Jordan

Charles Oakley had come off a solid season averaging 12.4 points and 13 rebounds. Moreover, he was the tough guy on the team. Despite his heavy impact, Jerry Krause decided it was time for a shift. And while attending Tyson’s fight, Jordan’s heart broke. Oakley moved to the New York Knicks. Now, this once brotherhood became an intense playoff rivalry. The Knicks and Bulls would keep facing off against each other. But despite the competition, the duo didn’t forget their connection.

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Even though they fought to put each other down, mutual respect always remained. Jordan went on a six championship route. On the other hand, Oakley retired as a Knicks legend. However, this duo ran it back one last time.

After coming back from his second retirement, Michael Jordan picked the Washington Wizards. And this time he wanted Oakley right next to him. In the final phases of their career, both Jordan and Oakley had one last ride. The Knicks legend even praised his best friend for playing all 82 games at the age of 40. At the end of it all, Oakley and His Airness continue to have the bond that they shared early in their careers.

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If Oakley wasn’t traded, do you think Jordan could have gotten him a ring? Let us know your views in the comments below.