Heavyweight boxing legend Mike Tyson recently opened up about why he has never faced Riddick Bowe, his former classmate and one of the greatest boxers of all time. In a candid interview, Tyson revealed his deep affection for Bowe and why the fight never happened
Tyson, known for his aggressive and uncompromising style in the ring, first addressed his personal views on not fighting Bowe. He said:
💬“I love Riddick Bowe. We went to school together… At this stage in my life and as conscious as I am, I don’t think I would ever fight him. It would be disrespectful.”
Tyson went on to explain that putting his hands on someone, whether in the ring or in life, only happens when he disrespects the opponent. He asserted:
💬 “The only reason you put your hands on someone, even in a street fight, is because you don’t respect them… But when grown men fight, the only reason I’m going to put my hands on you is because I don’t respect you.”
Tyson and Bowe have a special relationship, dating back to their youth when they both attended the same boxing school. While Tyson quickly became the most feared “Destroyer” in boxing history, Bowe also asserted his position with a victory over Evander Holyfield to become the heavyweight champion. However, the friendship and eyewear between the two always existed, overcoming all the pressure from fans and the media.
The question of “Who will win?” is still something that many are curious about. Tyson, with his incredibly aggressive and fast style, will face Bowe, a fighter with superior size and exquisite defensive skills. Even though the fight never happened, fans still enjoy imagining a confrontation between the two legends.
The decision not to fight Bowe did not diminish Tyson’s legacy, but rather emphasized his core values: respect and a sense of dignity. In a competitive boxing world where fame and fortune often overshadow personal feelings, Tyson learned that, sometimes, friendship is more important than any title.
Even without a Tyson vs. Bowe fight, both are still remembered as legends, and their relationship is a testament to the power of religion.