Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson surprised many by revealing which of his opponents was the smartest. The New York-born boxing legend fought in 58 professional bouts over two decades, winning 50 and recording only six losses.
“Iron Mike” was just 20 years old when he became the youngest heavyweight champion in history in 1986. His speed and power amazed the world, leading him to an impressive record of 44 knockout victories.
After such a remarkable career, Tyson has the authority to assess his past opponents. That’s why he recently spoke about the one he considers the smartest rival he ever faced.
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Tyson pointed to former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, whom he fought in 1988. Tyson won that fight by knockout in the fourth round, handing Holmes his third consecutive defeat. Speaking to The Ring, Tyson said: “Larry Holmes was the smartest of them all. It comes from being a champion for seven years.”
“Even though I won inside the distance, he was very hard to hit cleanly,” Mike Tyson added.
Mike Tyson’s other opponent rankings
For the former heavyweight champion, José Ribalta had the best chin. Despite landing heavy punches on the Cuban fighter, Ribalta always came back for more. “Ribalta went toe-to-toe with me… He was very strong in the clinches,” Tyson explained.
As for the hardest puncher he ever faced, Tyson didn’t hesitate to name Evander Holyfield, the man who defeated him twice. “He threw tremendous punches with both hands and with bad intentions,” Tyson remarked.
