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When Did Tyson Bite Evander Holyfield?
On November 9, 1997, the boxing world witnessed one of the most infamous moments in the history of the sport. Tyson, the former heavyweight champion, bit Holyfield, his opponent in the infamous “Bite Fight.” This incident has been the subject of countless discussions, debates, and analyses. Let’s delve into the details of this infamous event.
The Build-Up to the Fight
The fight between Tyson and Holyfield was highly anticipated. Both fighters had impressive records, with Tyson holding the WBA, IBF, and WBC heavyweight titles, and Holyfield being the WBA, IBF, and WBC super-middleweight champion. The fight was scheduled for 12 rounds, and many believed it would be a classic battle.
The Incident
During the third round of the fight, Tyson bit Holyfield on the ear. The incident occurred when Holyfield was attempting to throw a left hook, and Tyson’s head snapped back, causing his mouth to open and bite Holyfield’s ear. The referee, Mills Lane, immediately stopped the fight, and Holyfield was taken to the hospital for treatment.
| Round | Incident |
|---|---|
| 3rd | Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear |
The incident was caught on camera, and the footage quickly went viral. It was one of the most shocking moments in boxing history, and it left many viewers in disbelief.
The Aftermath
After the fight, Tyson was suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) for one year. He was also fined $3 million, which was the largest fine in boxing history at the time. Holyfield, on the other hand, was fined $200,000 for his role in the incident.
The incident had a significant impact on Tyson’s career. He was stripped of his titles, and his reputation was tarnished. Tyson attempted to return to the ring, but he was unable to regain his former glory. Holyfield, however, continued his boxing career and won the WBA heavyweight title in 1998.
The Legacy
The Tyson-Holyfield fight has become a part of boxing lore. It is often cited as one of the most controversial and infamous moments in the sport’s history. The incident has sparked discussions about the mental health of fighters, the need for stricter regulations, and the role of boxing promoters.
Many boxing fans argue that the incident was a result of Tyson’s mental instability. Tyson had a history of behavioral problems, and some believe that the incident was a manifestation of his mental health issues. Others argue that the incident was a result of the intense pressure and scrutiny that fighters face in the ring.
Regardless of the reasons behind the incident, it is clear that the Tyson-Holyfield fight has left a lasting impact on the sport of boxing. It has sparked important discussions about the mental health of fighters and the need for stricter regulations to protect both fighters and the sport itself.
