Evander Jones
Mike Tyson’s knockouts have always been legendary. Whether he was silencing doubters, shutting down trash talkers, or just putting on a display of pure ferocity, his punches electrified the boxing world. Fans couldn’t blink, or they might miss history in the making. Today, let’s revisit 10 of Iron Mike’s most jaw-dropping, unforgettable moments in the ring.
Tyson vs. Trevor Berbick (1986)
Tyson’s historic win as the youngest heavyweight champ was unforgettable. Berbick, filled with confidence, couldn’t withstand Tyson’s ferocious power. A second-round TKO and Berbick’s iconic stumble made this fight a defining moment, announcing the arrival of one of boxing’s greatest forces.
Tyson vs. Michael Spinks (1988)
In a lightning-fast 91 seconds, Tyson annihilated Spinks with a left-right combo, taking away his unbeaten record in a fight called “The Clash of Champions.” This wasn’t just another win. Tyson’s powerful performance sent a clear message—he was a force to be reckoned with in boxing.
Tyson vs. Larry Holmes (1988)
Tyson faced Holmes, returning after retirement, with unrelenting fury. Many viewed this bout as Tyson avenging perceived disrespect toward his idol, Muhammad Ali. Holmes lasted three rounds before a devastating right hand sealed his fate. For fans, this knockout was Tyson’s way of stamping his dominance and authority in the ring.
Tyson vs. Marvis Frazier (1986)
The hype fizzled out in a mere 30 seconds as Tyson obliterated Marvis Frazier. His ferocious uppercut flurry left Frazier defenseless against the ropes. The son of boxing great Joe Frazier had no answers for Tyson’s speed and power, a showcase that elevated Tyson’s intimidation factor to new heights.
Tyson vs. Carl “The Truth” Williams (1989)
Carl Williams claimed Tyson was beatable, but a punishing left hook proved otherwise in less than two minutes. Williams hit the mat hard, and the referee waved it off despite his protests. Tyson’s knockout here transcended physicality to become a warning to anyone questioning his supremacy in the division.
Tyson vs. Buster Mathis Jr. (1995)
Tyson’s return to the ring after prison was nothing short of dramatic. Mathis Jr. attempted to evade Tyson’s power early but couldn’t hold up. A brutal third-round uppercut combo ended the fight. This moment was Tyson’s reclamation of his rightful place as a heavyweight titan.
Tyson vs. Frank Bruno (1989)
Bruno came in with high hopes but quickly faltered against Tyson’s relentless attack. In the fifth round, a brutal barrage forced the referee to step in as Bruno couldn’t defend himself. Tyson’s performance silenced doubters and confirmed there were no apparent weaknesses in his game at that time.
Tyson vs. Clifford Etienne (2003)
Aged 36 and coming off losses, Tyson shocked everyone by dropping Etienne in just 49 seconds. A crushing right hand sent Etienne to the mat, solidifying Tyson’s enduring knockout power. Despite questions about his focus leading up to the match, Tyson reminded fans why his name still carried weight.
Tyson vs. Henry Tillman (1990)
Tillman’s amateur victories over Tyson set the stage for a fiery professional rematch. Tyson needed only one round to deliver a crushing right hook that sent Tillman down for good. He wasn’t taking revenge; he was erasing old scars while obliterating all the doubters who were naysaying his dominance.
Tyson vs. Pinklon Thomas (1987)
Thomas put up more resistance than most, but the sixth round saw Tyson unload a relentless combination of punches, estimated at 15. The referee stepped in as Thomas collapsed to the canvas. This fight showcased Tyson’s endurance and ability to dismantle even durable opponents with sheer ferocity.
