Mike Tyson didn’t hesitate when asked if he would have beaten Anthony Joshua in his prime

In a sport where confidence is as crucial as skill, Mike Tyson has never been short of self-assurance. Recently, when asked if he would have beaten Anthony Joshua in his prime, Tyson did not hesitate to affirm his belief. His conviction remains unshaken even as he prepares for an upcoming fight against Jake Paul in November, following a postponement due to an ulcer flare-up.

Tyson’s Dominance in the Ring

From 1985 to 2005, Tyson carved out a legacy that solidified his status as the “Baddest Man on the Planet.” In 58 professional bouts, Tyson achieved 50 wins, six losses, and two no contests. His rise to prominence was meteoric, becoming the youngest heavyweight champion in history at the age of 20. Tyson’s prime was characterized by an unparalleled ferocity, dispatching opponents with rapid, devastating combinations that left an indelible mark on boxing history.

A Fan of Joshua

Despite his confidence, Tyson has expressed admiration for Anthony Joshua, a two-time WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion. In an interview with The Sun, Tyson praised Joshua, saying, “Hey, I really like him. You know what he is? He’s really a breath of fresh air. He’s really clean, he really looks clean, he’s a clean guy, he’s a clean fighter, he’s a good puncher. You just wish the best for him.”

Tyson’s respect for Joshua extends beyond his skills in the ring. He acknowledged Joshua’s physicality and potential, stating, “He just looks like a fighter, you know? He looks like he was born to do what he has to do. He needs more experience, of course, but that will come in life.”

The Unbeatable Prime

However, Tyson’s admiration does not cloud his self-belief. On his Hotboxin’ podcast, Tyson was unequivocal when asked if he could have beaten Joshua and former WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury during his prime. “Yes. Listen, if you’re asking me if I was 20 years old, then yes, there’s no doubt,” Tyson asserted. “They’re really good fighters and I respect all these skills. It would have been very tough fighting them.”

Reflecting on Greatness

Tyson’s reflection on his prime is not just a testament to his confidence but also a recognition of the sheer dominance he exhibited during his peak years. His combination of speed, power, and relentless aggression made him a formidable opponent for any heavyweight, past or present. Tyson’s belief in his prime abilities underscores a career that, despite its ups and downs, remains one of the most storied in boxing history.

Looking Ahead

As Tyson gears up for his fight against Jake Paul, fans are reminded of the indomitable spirit that defined his career. While debates about fantasy matchups between different eras of fighters are ultimately speculative, they highlight the enduring fascination with Tyson’s legacy. His confidence in prevailing against today’s champions serves as a reminder of the greatness that once was and continues to captivate the world of boxing.