Mike Tyson got fans in a frenzy when he posted an interview on social media stating both Evander Holyfield and himself would be meeting in the ring again.
For those that don’t remember or maybe weren’t even born yet – In 1997, Tyson and Holyfield were in the heat of their heavyweight rematch when in the third round Tyson bit the right ear of Holyfield. After a brief stoppage in the fight, they continued and Tyson lost his composure again and bit the other ear of Holyfield. The attack led to Tyson’s disqualification, his boxing license being revoked by the Nevada State Athletic Commision as well fined $3 million plus legal costs.
Watch the video below *Viewer discretion is advised*
A representative for Tyson clarified to TMZ that he misspoke and the fight wasn’t actually ever confirmed, to begin with. He further explained that Tyson and his team were nowhere near an agreement on negotiations.
Although the fight is not set in stone as of today, intense negotiations have been happening for several months. Holyfield’s team believed a deal was “imminent,” but then Tyson’s team increased their demands. The original rematch, known as “The Bite Fight,” garnered over $180 million, close to $300 million if you account for inflation. It makes sense these two parties are trying to make it a massive payday.
“We thought this was a done deal, but it quickly fell apart when Tyson’s people declined all offers,” said Kris Lawrence, Evander Holyfield’s manager. “We were negotiating in good faith all along and it appears we just ended up wasting our time.”
Now, I guess it’s just a waiting game for the fans to see when they can agree on a deal. Let’s hope it doesn’t completely fall apart and we will see a rematch in the future. Maybe Tyson will lose his mind again and Holyfield will lose his entire ear. What a sight that would be.
Are you team Tyson or team Holyfield? Let me know in the comments below!
