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Background of the Incident
Mike Tyson, one of the most iconic boxers in history, is known for his fierce and sometimes controversial behavior inside the ring. One of the most infamous moments of his career occurred during a boxing match against Evander Holyfield on June 28, 1997.
The Boxing Match
The fight took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was a highly anticipated match, as both fighters were among the best in the world. The fight was a classic battle, with both fighters displaying their skills and determination.
Round | Mike Tyson | Evander Holyfield |
---|---|---|
1 | Knocks down Holyfield | Stands firm |
2 | Knocks down Holyfield again | Stands firm |
3 | Knocks down Holyfield for the third time | Referee stops the fight |
After the third knockdown, the referee stopped the fight, and Holyfield was declared the winner by technical knockout. However, the controversy of the night was yet to unfold.
The Infamous Bite
After the fight, Tyson was disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear. The incident occurred during the post-fight handshake. As Holyfield reached out to shake hands, Tyson bit down on his ear, causing a significant amount of blood to flow.
The Aftermath
The bite caused a significant amount of media attention and public outrage. Holyfield was rushed to the hospital for treatment, and Tyson was suspended from boxing for one year. The incident also led to a $3 million fine for Tyson.
The Impact on Tyson’s Career
The bite incident was a turning point in Tyson’s career. It tarnished his image and led to a decline in his popularity. Despite winning 12 of his 14 professional fights after the incident, he was never able to regain the same level of fame and fortune.
The Legal Consequences
After the incident, Tyson faced legal consequences as well. He was charged with assault and battery, and was sentenced to one year in prison. He served three months of that sentence before being released on parole.
The Legacy of the Incident
The bite incident remains one of the most infamous moments in boxing history. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of sports and the potential for violence. It also highlights the importance of sportsmanship and respect for opponents.
Conclusion
The incident involving Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield’s ear is a dark chapter in boxing history. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of losing control in the heat of competition. While Tyson’s career never fully recovered from the incident, it remains a significant part of his legacy and the history of boxing.