EXCLUSIVE: Mike Tyson talks Tyson Fury, why pressure is a ‘privilege’… and his worst hangover

Mike Tyson, known as the ‘baddest man on the planet’ for his ruthless ring personality, is a striking contrast outside the ropes. Beneath the wild exterior lies a strangely lovable man whose life story combines frightening power with unexpected warmth.

Tyson, 57, is speaking to Mail Sport in a dimly lit boxing gym north of Las Vegas where he is helping to train Cameroonian-French heavyweight Francis Ngannou ahead of his fight with Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia later this month.

Tyson’s journey has been colorful to say the least. He was married three times, had seven children with three wives.

His mother died when he was a teenager, he bit his opponent Evander Holyfield’s ear in 1997 and went to prison in his 20s.

“My whole life has been a waste — I’ve been a failure,” he told USA Today in 2005. “I just want to escape. I’m so ashamed of myself and my life.’ But it seems he has found peace now.

WATCH THE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW ON MAIL SPORT’S BOXING YOUTUBE CHANNEL

When Tyson arrived at the gym for our interview, his larger-than-life vibe and legendary status filled the room – creating a sense of reverence and awe around the gym.

But his warm smile and hearty greeting to Mail Sport offered a glimpse of the 57-year-old’s endearing personality. He extended his hand to greet me and joked about his worst hangover after I asked him about his role in the movie of that name.

“It’s not even healthy,” he says with a soft laugh. It’s not even allowed on tape! So let’s not talk about it!’

We sat in two metal chairs, Tyson’s iconic stature spilling over the edge. After he calmed down, he started asking me about myself. His friendly banter and warm questions eased tensions, making our interaction feel like a casual conversation with a friend. It revealed his genuine desire to connect and create an inviting atmosphere.

After the ice was broken, we talked about boxing and how the pressure Ngannou will feel when he steps into the ring as a big man to face Fury can be used to his advantage.

“The most pressure I’ve ever felt was the first time I fought for the title,” he says in his smooth New York accent.

“It was against Trevor Berbick in 1986. There was a lot of pressure on me for that fight. But then I realized this. Pressure is a privilege.

“Having that pressure is a privilege. Not many people have that privilege in their lifetime and can live up to 90 years. So, I consider it a privilege to be under that kind of pressure.

“I’m helping Ngannou. I’m learning what he’s capable of. He’s capable of a lot more than I expected.

“He has what it takes to knock out anything or anyone that stands in his way. Once he punches Tyson Fury in the jaw, he’ll knock him out too. No one can survive it.’

As he speaks, Tyson is open, honest and engaging, as the rhythmic sound of gloves meeting heavy bags echoes through the gym.

He offered me his undivided attention. He was fully present, his intense gaze and thoughtful responses painting a portrait of a man who, despite his tumultuous journey, values ​​connection with those who seek to understand his remarkable story.

In addition, Tyson refused to boast about his achievements; instead, he reflected on his journey candidly. Such humility made him feel approachable and relatable, humanizing a figure once perceived as invincible.

“My philosophy of fighting people and knocking them out was just putting as much pressure as I could,” he adds. “It was just pressure, pressure, pressure. Make them make mistakes and then fight back with knockouts. How simple.’

So which knockout brought him his greatest satisfaction? Tyson sits in his chair. It’s definitely a topic close to his heart.

“Larry Holmes,” he says with no smugness, just pride, referring to their fight in 1988. “I wanted to knock him out because he beat Muhammad Ali eight years ago in Las Vegas. I was crying about the fight and I told myself that I would get revenge for Ali during my career.’

Tyson continues to discuss the difference between his style and the current generation of heavyweight boxers. And he expresses his frustration at the egos and politics that leave fans frustrated.

“It’s different now,” he says. “Warriors are more athletic. They have great quality fighters in the heavyweight division, but they just have to fight each other. Many times, short periods fall with these heavy weights. They just have to fight each other!

‘Look at Joe Joyce. He fights anyone. I know he’s been beaten twice, but he’s fighting them. These other guys don’t even fight anyone to see who they are. They have to fight each other twice or maybe even three times. Just fight!’

It’s the only time Tyson’s voice is raised. But he has no qualms about fighters who will only fight for the money. He knows the harsh realities of the sport and understands their desire to support their families.

When asked if Fury is wrong to prioritize money, Tyson says: ‘No! He is capitalizing on his celebrity status. Why does he always have to jump into boxing administration? Can they give him time to make some money and take down a bank?

“He is making some money for his family. “Let me do what I have to do and then when it’s time to box I’ll box. Boxing people should stay out of my personal business.”

“Fury is not the greatest of all time, but he is one of the greatest of all time. He is really up. He can do greatness now.

“He’s always going to bring a good night of boxing, he’s going to fight hard. You should try to knock him out cold because he always gets up and fights hard.’

Our time is up and Tyson thanks Mail Sport for the interview. We promise to make it to Saudi Arabia on Ngannou’s clash with Fury. Another chance to meet the man behind the legend.