More stories

  • in

    Major broadcast change as Netflix look to snap up two huge sports after Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson fight 

    NETFLIX could become the next big powerhouses of combat sports. The streaming giants – who have over 280MILLION paying subscribers – dip their toes into live sport for the first time next Friday. Jake Paul will headline Netflix’s first boxing eventCredit: SportsfileNetflix controversially host Mike Tyson’s boxing comeback against YouTuber-turned-prizefighter Jake Paul. Talks with Paul spanned over a year and a deal was struck when heavyweight icon Tyson agreed to come out of retirement to fight.But SunSport understands this will not be Netflix’s only major play in sports streaming.The movie makers announced a stunning $5BILLION (£3.8bn) deal with the WWE to air events in the US and worldwide. READ MORE IN BOXINGAs of January, the WWE’s flagship show Monday Night Raw will be on Netflix.And by then, Netflix will have ALL of WWE’s programming exclusively platformed on their site in the UK, replacing TNT Sports as broadcaster.The WWE joined forces with the UFC this year as part of a merger with the TKO group worth $21bn (£16.2bn). It comes as the UFC’s five-year, $1.5bn (£1.1bn) TV contract with ESPN, is due to expire at the end of 2025.Most read in BoxingJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSeveral bidders are already in talks with the UFC, with Netflix among them. It would mean Netflix attempting to get the UFC and WWE under one umbrella while more boxing events are also eyed. Fans get first look of Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson training camp with Iron Mike ‘looking like he’s 25 again’Paul has also not ruled out working with Netflix again, having boxed on DAZN, Triller, Showtime and ESPN in the past. He was in negotiations with Netflix for several fights, including a rematch against Tommy Fury, 25, who he lost to in 2023. Paul, 27, has featured in Netflix’s Untold documentary series before and will split a huge $80m (£60m) purse with Tyson, 58.Iron Mike returns for his first professional bout since 2005.It will be officially sanctioned but over eight two-minute rounds – opposed to the usual three – fought in bigger 14oz gloves instead if 10oz. UFC boss Dana White and WWE legend Triple HCredit: Getty More

  • in

    I hope Mike Tyson knocks out Jake Paul, losing will tarnish his legacy as an all-time great, ex-sparring partner fears

    MIKE TYSON must knock out Jake Paul for the sake of his reputation. That is according to Joe Egan, who sparred the boxing great when they were both teenage amateurs. Mike Tyson facing off with Jake PaulCredit: RexEgan spent two years training with Iron Mike before he became the youngest heavyweight champion of all time aged just 20 in 1986. But the Irishman fears that will be just one of the legendary feats to be tarnished if Tyson is beaten by YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul on Friday. Egan told SunSport: “I think Paul is going to be confronted with that wrecking machine on the 15th, and I sort of say this in hope, I hope that Mike knocks him out.“Because, it’s going to diminish his achievements of the 91 seconds against Michael Spinks, three rounds with Trevor Berbick.READ MORE IN BOXING“It’s going to take away from all of that because Jake Paul isn’t the man to beat Mike Tyson at this stage of his life or at this age of his career, because he will tarnish his reputation as an all-time great.”Egan and Tyson remained good friends in the years after their sparring sessions in the Catskills in New York. And Egan was even at Tyson’s last professional bout – over 20 YEARS ago when he quit on his stool and threw the towel in on his career. Egan, who has launched new company Platinum Prizes, recalls: “I was at that fight in Washington DC, but it was a shell of a man. It was a shell of a man.Most read in BoxingJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”And when Danny Williams beat him, it was the British heavyweight champion European heavyweight champion, no shame to lose to that man.“But it was still the shell of a man in Mike Tyson, right? McBride was a good heavyweight but Jake Paul is no McBride and he isn’t Danny Williams.”TYSON FEUD Mike Tyson discusses street fight with Mitch Green before Donald Trump saved his careerPaul, 27, has ten wins and only a single loss to Tommy Fury, 25, in his boxing record. And Egan – who retired himself at 13-3 while also representing Ireland as an amateur – respects the social media star. He said: “Jake Paul has got something that fighters are born with, and that’s courage. You can teach a person skills but you can’t teach them courage.“Now, if you haven’t got courage, you go and play other sports. You don’t play boxing.“You play basketball, you play golf, you play tennis, you play soccer, you don’t play boxing so he’s got quality that I admire. He’s got an admirable quality.“The fact that he wants to climb into the ring with the most powerful puncher of his era, 58 or 28 – doesn’t matter. Mike Tyson is still a wrecking machine.”Mike Tyson with former sparring partner Joe Egan More

  • in

    England’s international break is a mess before a ball’s been kicked – this wouldn’t have happened under Gareth Southgate

    WHAT a mess England’s latest international break is before a ball has even been kicked.Less than four months after contesting the Euro 2024 final, the Three Lions are struggling to put a decent team out for the important – yes, they are, actually – Nations League games against Greece and Ireland.Lee Carsley will have to make do with a depleted squad ahead of his final games as interim England bossCredit: GettyGareth Southgate made England respected again on the pitchCredit: GettyOf course, it is ridiculous that this is the third opportunity for a club versus country row already season.Naturally, over-mighty clubs, mostly the same ones who were prepared to betray English football to set up a European Super League, are taking advantage.But poor old Lee Carsley, his staff and the hordes of fans travelling to Athens for Thursday’s game really have been hung out to dry by the Football Association.By appointing Thomas Tuchel last month but pandering to his desire not to actually start work until January, the Wembley bosses have made what would already have been a difficult situation much, much worse.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPutting the F and the A in farce since…well, for most of the last few decades.But that is the point. Under Gareth Southgate, England stopped being a laughing stock on and off the pitch.Pulling on the shirt became something players wanted to do again, a pleasure instead of the chore it had become across years of underachievement and bad feeling.Fans and media reconnected with the national team. Everyone was in it together.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat culture, years in the making, has been eroded in just a few short weeks.Being manager of England no longer feels like the biggest honour our game can bestow on a coach – the sentiments that Carsley was expressing only a matter of days ago.Lee Carsley reveals classy message to Thomas Tuchel and says new England manager has no influence on his squad If Tuchel can opt in and out and decide which games matter, then why not the players and the clubs who ultimately call the shots?Among the eight withdrawals, there will be genuine injuries which would make it unlikely or unwise for the individual to take part in either match.Yet you can bet if Tuchel was even just going to show his face at St George’s Park this week, or attend Thursday’s game in Athens or Sunday’s at Wembley, some of them would have turned up.You could argue that having Tuchel around if he wasn’t going to mastermind the actual matches, would have undermined Carsley.What, any more than making the interim boss pretend he did not know that he was not going to get the job full-time and his successor had been chosen?Skipper Harry Kane is available for the two upcoming matchesCredit: GettySouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024The point is, if Tuchel is serious about England and the FA are serious about Tuchel, he should be in charge right now.If he and the FA find themselves having to contest Nations League play-off matches in March instead of World Cup qualifiers and/or top-level friendlies, they will only have themselves to blame.And if the Tuchel/England experiment does not succeed overall – which, by the standards they have publicly laid down, means winning the 2026 World Cup – then they can expect pelters from the fans.Supporters are paying large sums of money to go to Athens to watch what will be an under-strength team. Inside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.The next major tournament, being staged across four time zones and three countries, will be a major undertaking.And most of the flags you will see in Mexico, Canada and the USA won’t bear the names of Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal or Manchester City, the sides who have had players pull out of Carsley’s squad.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe majority of the fans who cross the Atlantic will be proudly representing clubs like Luton, Colchester, Stoke and Chesterfield, as well as their country.What a shame others don’t have the same commitment. More

  • in

    Former Real Madrid star’s house left a charred wreck after horrific fire as partner says ‘we are still in shock’

    FORMER Real Madrid striker Borja Mayoral has suffered a devastating fire at his home that has left his family in “shock”.The Spanish forward, 27, who now plays for Getafe, saw the top floor of his Madrid chalet go up in flames.Borja Mayoral has revealed a fire ripped through his Madrid homeCredit: GettyMayoral’s wife Favia Natalini shared a picture of the devastating impact of the blazeCredit: Instagram @flavianataliniFlavia also thanked the firefighters for putting it outCredit: Instagram @flavianataliniMayoral and Flavia thanked those who sent them well wishesCredit: RexTwo fire engines arrived at the scene to put out the fire.According to Marca, the first two floors were damaged along with the chalet.And Mayoral took to Instagram to provide an update for his 926,000 followers.He said: “As you may have read in various media outlets, I had a problem at home today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Luckily, my family and I are fine and everything has just been a scare.”Thank you very much for your messages of concern.”Mayoral’s partner, Flavia Natalini, posted a picture of the destroyed house showing the rubble that has been left behind.And she said: “You’re asking us a lot about what happened to us… We’re still in shock but we’re all fine and that’s the important thing. Thank you all very much.”Most read in FootballMayoral spent seven years at Real Madrid between 2015 and 2022Credit: AP:Associated PressAlongside another image of the firefighters who put out the blaze, she added: “You are heroes. Thank you.”Mayoral spent seven years at Real Madrid but played just 33 games for the club, scoring seven goals.He won the Champions League and Club World Cup during his time with the Spanish giants, before he eventually departed permanently in 2022 for Getafe.Since penning a long-term deal at the club, Mayoral has scored 26 goals in 69 matches for Getafe.Last season, he racked up his best goal return with 17 in 31 appearances. More

  • in

    Frank Lampard one of ‘EIGHTY’ applicants for vacant EFL job as owner confirms Chelsea legend has applied

    FRANK LAMPARD could be set for a return to management with Coventry City – but there’s no shortage of competition. The 46-year-old has been out of work since a spell as interim boss of Chelsea last year. Frank Lampard has been tipped for a return to managementCredit: RexThe former England midfielder endured a miserable tenure with EvertonCredit: GettyLampard has managed the Blues, Derby County, and Everton since hanging up his boots in 2016. The three-time Premier League champion is now in the running for the vacant managerial position at Coventry.Sky Blues owner Doug King has confirmed Lampard is being considered for the role. The club parted ways with Mark Robins last week after a poor start to the Championship season. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKing told Sky Sports: “We’ve received a huge amount of CVs from high-quality people of which Frank is one. “We’ve done nothing on that process. But clearly we’re in the international break, and we’ll be assessing everything.”We’ll work out who’s going to make the shortlist and we’ll go from there.”King also confirmed as many as 80 applications have been received by the second-tier club. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRobins’ departure was a shock among Coventry fans, who watched the former Man Utd star drag them from League Two to the cusp of the top-flight. Coventry reached the Championship playoff final in 2022/23, losing on penalties to Luton Town. Frank Lampard hints at next job after Chelsea sacking he’d be ‘crazy’ to turn downRobins guided them to a ninth-placed finish and an FA Cup semi-final last year, but despite serious investment the club currently sit 17th. Following the surprise sacking last week, Coventry legend Steve Ogrizovic spoke of his “shock” at the decision. Ogrizovic told BBC CWR: “Very few things in football shock me but this is a poor decision.”Mark Robins had more to give, look at the club since the day he came in and it’s been year-on-year success and progression.”The sun has been shining on Coventry and they got back into the Championship and along the way there were some great memories for people.”The stadium is full now and it wasn’t when Mark Robins first came to the club.”Mark Robins was sacked by Coventry City last weekCredit: PALampard has not had a managerial position since an interim role with Chelsea in 2023Credit: GettyLampard is a free agent after being sacked by Everton last year.He left the club 19th place in the Premier League, earning just 12 wins from 44 games in charge. Earlier this month, Lampard was tipped to take over from under-fire West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.READ MORE SUN STORIESFormer Sky pundit Jeff Stelling told talkSPORT: “Is it time, if Lopetegui goes, for West Ham to bring Frank Lampard home? Just a thought. “He is available. He’s been mentioned in connection with the Roma job, but West Ham would be ideal for him.” More

  • in

    Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes helps rescue stricken passenger while heading to Portugal international duty

    BRUNO FERNANDES has been hailed as a “hero” after helping a passenger on a plane while heading to Portugal.Following his Man of the Match performance in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester on Sunday, Fernandes had began the journey to link up with Portugal over the international break.Bruno Fernandes remarkably helped an unwell passenger on an easyJet flightCredit: ReutersThe incident happened on an easyJet flight from Manchester to LisbonCredit: GettyThe Red Devils’ captain was taking an easyJet flight from Manchester to Lisbon with team-mate Diogo Dalot.However, the 30-year-old was quick to act when he noticed a man appearing to pass out at the back of the plane.As fellow passenger Susanna Lawson told Business Cloud, Fernandes was heard shouting: “Excuse me! We need help! Excuse me! We need help!”Lawson was heading to Web Summit – where Man Utd CEO Omar Berrada, runner Sir Mo Farah, Manchester City star Ruben Dias and Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy will be among those speaking – when the drama unfolded. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe said: “Bruno went to the loo at the back of the plane during the flight.”(We) suddenly heard a shout for assistance which those within hearing distance looked back, including us as we were toward the back.”Bruno was holding a gentleman who looked like he was passing out. “I don’t know if he lost consciousness or not.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Members of the crew rushed to the back to help. “There was a spare seat at the back which Bruno helped the gentleman to sit down on.What does Bruno Fernandes’ celebration mean ?”He stayed at the back with them and made sure he was OK. “It might have been about 5-10 minutes and then he made his way back to his seat but again very unassuming. “He wasn’t looking for any attention on himself.“He was very unassuming. “Unless you knew who he was you would never have known he was anyone special if you know what I mean.“We were not sure whether to ask him for a selfie because of that. “He didn’t mention Man Utd at all.”At the end of the flight, Lawson managed to grab a photo with Fernandes.Man Utd ratings v LeicesterHere’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the Red Devils.ANDRE ONANA – 7Stood tall when Ndidi went through on goal and a decent tip round the post from Ayew as Leicester tried to get back in it.NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 6Lucky to escape tackle on Buonanotte without any punishment. Supplied the cross from the left which led to United’s second goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Made a key second half clearance when the Foxes were trying to find their way back into the game. Fairly comfortable afternoon for home defenders.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Spent the first hour at centre half then showed his versatility by switching to left-back when Dalot was forced off.DIOGO DALOT – 6Did a steady job keeping the Foxes at bay but then taken off on the hour – presumably due to injury as United had to reshuffle their defence.CASEMIRO – 7Better from the veteran Brazilian who helped United take command of the game before getting the chance to put his feet up late on.MANUEL UGARTE – 6Great challenge on Soumare showed what he is all about and some signs he is finding his feet. Will be looking forward to arrival of former boss Amorim.AMAD DIALLO – 7Delightful backheel for Fernandes to curl home the opener and could have scored himself. The Ivorian has had a good week.  BRUNO FERNANDES – 8Presented with a shirt to mark his 250th appearance before the game and will be getting more plaudits for his performance here. Involved in all three goals.MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Given the nod to start ahead of Garnacho but did not do enough to justify the faith of Van Nistelrooy. No surprise when he was replaced by the Argentine on the hour.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5A largely ineffective afternoon for the Danish forward before he was subbed late on. Nothing wrong with his work-rate but does he have the quality Amorim will want?She added: “When I asked him politely for a selfie as we were leaving the plane he was absolutely lovely and actually took the selfie himself.”I praised him for looking after the ill passenger. “Honestly if you didn’t know who he was you would have just thought he was any other passenger.”Fernandes’ match-winning exploits at Old Trafford on Sunday marked his 250th appearance for the club.These 250 games have seen him score 83 goals and add 73 assists.When he returns to Carrington after international matches against Poland and Croatia in the Uefa Nations League, Fernandes will be greeted by a new head coach.Ruben Amorim has arrived in England to take over the Man Utd job after leaving his own role at Sporting Lisbon.The club’s last four games had been managed by Ruud van Nistelrooy on an interim basis, with three of those four games since Erik ten Hag’s sacking ending in victory and the other being a draw.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro.However, the Dutchman has now left the club with Amorim bringing his own backroom staff in to oversee his new squad.A statement from the club on Van Nistelrooy’s departure said: “Manchester United can confirm that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club. “Ruud rejoined in the summer and has taken charge of the team for the past four matches as interim head coach. Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.”We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.”Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel have also left the club.Before Amorim was announced as the new Man Utd coach, Fernandes tipped the 39-year-old to be a future Premier League manager. He said: “He is a coach who has shown that he is prepared. Being Sporting’s coach and winning championships is not easy. “Sporting went 20 years without winning a championship, and then Mr. Rúben came and won two. That in itself shows that his work is being done well.”Now, whether he can do the same in England or Spain or anywhere else, we will never know until we get there. But I am sure that Mr . Rúben Amorim’s qualities are there for all to see.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Since coach Rúben Amorim arrived at Sporting, I think they have been one of the teams playing the best football, they have been very consistent, the signings have been very successful. “They are in a very good moment. They have just become champions last year and this year they are already starting in the lead. They are a team that is very well prepared.”Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change. More

  • in

    Mike Tyson’s biggest fight is battle with addictions to sex and drugs, but one woman has helped turn his life around

    MIKE TYSON might be fighting Jake Paul on Friday night but the biggest battle of his life has come outside the ring.The legendary heavyweight, 58, who became the youngest world champion in the division’s history at the age of just 20, suffered years of addiction to sex and drug addiction.Mike Tyson holds the record as the youngest ever world heavyweight championCredit: GettyTyson and actress Robin Givens had a one-year marriage in the late 1980sCredit: GettyThe boxer battled sex and drug addiction for yearsCredit: AP:Associated PressTyson has hailed third wife Lakiha Spicer for turning his life aroundCredit: GettyNowadays he has a calmer persona, largely thanks to the influence of his third wife, Lakiha Spicer.He does still regularly smoke cannabis – although he has claimed he has given it up while training for the showdown with YouTuber Paul.But his current dabbling in recreational drugs pales in comparison with stories of his various addictions from years ago – which stretches all the way back to him taking acid at the age of just 11.Many of Tyson’s sexual exploits took place during the height of his boxing fame in the 1980s.READ MORE ON PAUL VS TYSONSex with groupies before fightsHis former bodyguard and chauffeur, Rudy Gonzalez, recalled back in 2021 that Tyson would have sex with “groupies” in the dressing room before fights to avoid “killing” his opponents.Gonzalez explained: “One of the greatest secrets with Mike was that he needed to have sex in the dressing room before fights.”I would have to find a groupie, it did not matter who it was. He’d say ‘if I do not get laid I will kill this guy right now’.”Mike had to get laid to disengage some of the strength he had. So I had girls tucked away in bathrooms and changing rooms.Most read in BoxingJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTTyson and Givens married when the boxer was in his early 20sCredit: GettyThey swiftly separated but carried on dating, before Tyson caught Givens in bed with actor Brad PittCredit: Getty”Sometimes he’d go in with them for a minute, bang the s*** out of them, snap his neck and say: ‘Okay this guy is going to live tonight’.”His biggest fear was that he would kill someone in that ring. He knew he could do it.UFC chief Dana White reveals chat with Mike Tyson’s wife ahead of Jake Paul fight”I still see some of the guys he fought. I was there at ringside seeing these huge men crying, bones shattering or their blood flying everywhere.”It is no exaggeration to say Mike was like a train hitting these guys. Having sex was his way of disengaging that power and loosening up a bit.”‘Pure hell’ living with TysonTyson had a whirlwind 12-month marriage to his first wife, actress Robin Givens, in the late 80s.Prior to their official separation, Givens described her husband as a “manic depressive” and labelled living with him as “torture, pure hell”.They continued seeing each other after their divorce, before Tyson walked in on Givens sleeping with Hollywood actor Brad Pitt.Tyson went to prison for three years in 1992 for the rape of Desiree Washington.But being locked up did not curb his sex addiction as he claimed he slept with a prison counsellor in the hope of having his sentence reduced.After being released, he tied the knot with second wife, Monica Turner, in 1997 – a marriage that lasted six years.Tyson married second wife Monica Turner in 1997Credit: ReutersThey split in 2003 after Turner filed for divorce claiming Tyson had cheated on herCredit: EPAThey ended up having two children together – Rayna and Amir – but the relationship did not last as Turner filed for divorce after claiming adultery.Many of the years which could have been Tyson’s best in the ring were curtailed by addiction issues.While heavily addicted to cocaine he walked his pet white tigers around wearing only his pants, tried to fight a gorilla in a zoo, and hosted orgies with scores of women, including mothers and daughters.He even claims to have cheated boxing drugs tests by using a fake penis and urine from his ex-wife and daughter.Speaking about that period of his life, he said: “Cocaine was a hell of a drug and back then I was out of my mind living crazy.”I was not being responsible or being present. But that is what my life is all about now.”The little bullied kid I was growing up is always inside me but now I know how to protect him.”I didn’t know how to do that before, that’s why I was doing such crazy stuff and getting in trouble.”Tyson was jailed for assaulting two men in 1999 – having served three years for rape between 1992 and 1995Credit: AFPTyson admits he was drunk and high when meeting The Hangover cast in 2007Credit: GettyTyson’s addiction to drugs went on for a number of years while his run-ins with the law also continued as he was jailed for assaulting two men in 1999.In 2003, he filed for bankruptcy after blowing his £330million fortune.He has also admitted to being drunk and high when meeting the cast of the 2007 film The Hangover in which the boxing icon plays a cameo role.In 2012, when discussing the filming of the movie, he told The Planet: “I was a mess. I was overweight. I was a pig, high on cocaine.”The woman who tamed himThings began to take a turn for the better in 2009 when he married third wife, Spicer, 43.The pair were first introduced by promoter Don King who introduced Spicer to Tyson when she was 18 years of age.They finally began dating in the mid-2000s and married two weeks after the tragic death of Tyson’s daughter, Exodus – one of his seven children.They tied the knot shortly after Spicer served six months in federal jail for defrauding £60,000 from a company owned by her father.Tyson has spoken glowingly about the positive impact third wife Spicer has had on himCredit: GettyThe couple have now been married for 15 yearsCredit: RexYet despite being locked up herself for a short period, Tyson insists Spicer has had a hugely positive effect on him.She left prison carrying Tyson’s baby and found the ex-boxer hopelessly addicted to drugs.While he still smokes weed – and now owns a cannabis business – he has stopped taking hard drugs thanks to the support of his partner.He told US magazine People: “I’m very happy me and my wife got together, because I don’t know how I would have survived out there.”It is true, Tyson is not a completely changed man, admitting on rapper T.I.’s ExpediTIously podcast as recently as 2021 that he had only been faithful to Spicer for the last two years.But he is an improved person heading into his boxing return against Paul.And he puts that positive change down to the impact of Spicer who he has two children with – daughter Milan and son Morocco Elijah.READ MORE SUN STORIESTyson added: “I’m a soldier. I can’t think for myself. I need someone to do it.”I know myself. Without my wife, I’m a wild animal.” More

  • in

    How many fights has Mike Tyson lost and what is the boxer’s record in the ring?

    MIKE TYSON’S boxing career spanned two decades before he ‘retired’, including incredible victories, shocking defeats and controversy both in and out of the ring.Earning the monikers “Iron Mike” and “The Baddest Man on the Planet” along the way, he’s not done yet — he takes on Jake Paul on November 15 in one of the most highly-anticipated fights of the year.Mike Tyson pushed Jake Paul when they faced off ahead of their Netflix showdownCredit: AFPMike Tyson’s full boxing recordMike Tyson’s professional boxing record stands at 50 wins, 6 losses and 2 no contests.Of his 50 victories, an astonishing 44 came by way of knockout, showcasing his devastating punching power.Tyson’s career began in 1985 and officially ended in 2005, although he later participated in exhibition bouts, including against Roy Jones Jr in 2020.He has come out of retirement to go toe-to-toe with the Problem Child — 31 years his junior.read more on mike tysonCounting down to Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson…READ MORE on all the build-up to the massive clash in Texas on Netflix…Rise to dominanceTyson’s ascent in the boxing world was meteoric.He won his first 19 professional fights by knockout, with 12 of those victories coming in the first round, setting the stage for his historic championship run.Trevor BerbickMike Tyson demolished champion Trevor Berbick in two rounds to become the youngest ever heavyweight world championCredit: GettyOn November 22, 1986, a 20-year-old Tyson faced Trevor Berbick for the WBC heavyweight title.Iron Mike demolished Berbick in just two rounds, becoming the youngest heavyweight champion in history – a record he still holds.Most read in BoxingThe victory marked the beginning of Tyson’s reign of terror in the heavyweight division.Larry HolmesTyson handed Larry Holmes his first taste of defeat via KOTyson’s bout against former champion Larry Holmes on January 22, 1988, was a passing of the torch.The young champion knocked out 38-year-old Holmes in the fourth round.It was the first and only time Holmes was knocked out in his own Hall of Fame career.Tony Tubbs(Left to right) Muhammad Ali, Don King, Tony Tubbs and Tim WitherspoonCredit: GettyOn March 21, 1988, Tyson defended his titles against Tony Tubbs.After Tubbs enjoyed some success in the first round, Mike stopped him in the second.The fight was notable for taking place in the Tokyo Dome, Japan, marking the first time Iron Mike had fought outside the United States.He earned a whopping $10m for the fight, with Tubbs paid just $500k.Michael SpinksAt the time, Tyson vs Michael Spinks was the richest fight in boxing historyCredit: GettyArguably Tyson’s most impressive victory came on June 27, 1988, against Michael Spinks.In a battle of undefeated champions, The Baddest Man on the Planet knocked out Spinks in just 91 seconds.At the time, the fight was the richest in boxing history, with Tyson paid $22m and Spinks earning $13.5m.It cemented Iron Mike’s status as the undisputed heavyweight champion.Frank BrunoFrank Bruno landed a powerful left hook on Tyson in their 1989 classicCredit: APTyson’s first fight against Frank Bruno on February 25, 1989, saw him retain his titles with a fifth-round TKO.The fight was originally meant to be at Wembley Stadium but had to be rescheduled after a street fight with Mitch Green left Tyson with a broken hand.It showcased the champ’s ability to overcome adversity after British favourite Bruno had some early success before Tyson’s power prevailed.Aura of invincibility shatteredBuster DouglasBuster Douglas shocked the world of boxing when he beat Iron MikeCredit: APTyson’s aura of invincibility was shattered when he faced James “Buster” Douglas in Tokyo on February 11, 1990.In one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, Douglas knocked out the undisputed heavyweight king in the 10th round.The shocking upset expose chinks in Tyson’s armor.Douglas, a 42-1 underdog, weathered Tyson’s early storm and capitalised on his lack of conditioning.The loss marked the beginning of Tyson’s decline and remains a pivotal moment in boxing history.PrisonMike Tyson served three years in prison after being convicted of rapeCredit: AFPTyson’s career was interrupted in 1992 when he was convicted of rape and sentenced to six years in prison.He had been arrested for the rape of Desiree Washington in Indiana, who was 18 at the time and had previously been crowned Miss Black Rhode Island.He served three years before being released on parole in 1995.ComebackFrank Bruno 2Tyson savouring victory as the referee went to Frank Bruno’s aid after calling a halt to proceedingsCredit: The TimesAfter his release from prison, Tyson had warm up fights against Peter McNeeley and Buster Mathis in 1995.Tyson then reclaimed the WBC title by defeating Frank Bruno in their rematch on March 16, 1996.Tyson, who was paid $30m for the fight, stopped Bruno in the third round, showing flashes of his former dominance.Evander Holyfield 1 & 2Tyson was disqualified for biting Evander Holyfield in their second fightAfter another title defence against Bruce Seldon, Tyson’s comeback hit a roadblock when he faced Evander Holyfield on November 9, 1996.Holyfield, considered past his prime after three defeats in his previous seven, shocked the boxing world by stopping Mike in the 11th round.The defeat set the stage for one of the most infamous moments in boxing history.On June 28, 1997, the rematch ended in controversy when Tyson was disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear. The incident not only severely damaged Iron Mike’s reputation, but also resulted in his boxing licence being revoked for over a year.Andrew GolotaTyson’s victory against Andrew Golota was overturned to a no-contest after Iron Mike tested positive for marijuanaCredit: REUTERSOn October 20, 2000, The Baddest Man on the Planet’s bout against Andrew Golota initially resulted in a TKO victory for Tyson.However, the result was later changed to a no contest when Tyson tested positive for marijuana.Lennox LewisLennox Lewis Lewis KO’d Tyson in the eighth roundOn June 8, 2002, Tyson faced Lennox Lewis in a highly anticipated heavyweight showdown.Reigning champion Lewis totally dominated the fight, knocking out Tyson in the eighth round.He used his size and reach advantage to control the former undisputed champ, exposing the limitations of the ageing fighter.The loss effectively ended Tyson’s status as an elite heavyweight.’Final’ boutsDanny WilliamsDanny Williams famously knocked Tyson outTyson’s decline continued with a shocking fourth-round knockout loss to Brit contender Danny Williams on July 30, 2004.This upset loss came as Tyson, by then aged 38, was clearly past his prime.A knee injury during the fight contributed to Tyson’s defeat, but it was evident that his skills had significantly diminished.This defeat raised further questions about his future in the sport.Kevin McBrideIrishman Kevin McBride put a beating on the former undisputed heavyweight championTyson’s final professional fight came on June 11, 2005, against Kevin McBride.In his final professional bout, he quit on his stool after six rounds against the unheralded McBride.After the fight, Tyson admitted that he no longer had “the fighting guts or the heart anymore.”Exhibition eraRoy Jones JrIron Mike landed some solid body shots on Roy Jones JrOn November 28, 2020, at the age of 54, Tyson returned to the ring for an exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe fight was ruled a draw, but Mike’s performance garnered praise and reignited interest in his boxing career.Jones Jr did the perfect job of stifling Tyson throughout the entire fight by clinching at any opportunity he could.’Iron’ Mike Tyson’s full boxing recordMike Tyson fought 58 professional fights, resulting in 50 wins (44 by knockout), 6 losses, and 2 no contests. Here’s his record in chronological order:March 6, 1985 – Hector Mercedes – Win by KO, Round 1April 10, 1985 – Trent Singleton – Win by TKO, Round 1May 23, 1985 – Don Halpin – Win by KO, Round 4June 20, 1985 – Ricardo Spain – Win by TKO, Round 1July 11, 1985 – John Alderson – Win by TKO, Round 2July 19, 1985 – Larry Sims – Win by KO, Round 3August 15, 1985 – Lorenzo Canady – Win by KO, Round 1September 5, 1985 – Michael Johnson – Win by KO, Round 1October 9, 1985 – Donnie Long – Win by TKO, Round 1October 25, 1985 – Robert Colay – Win by KO, Round 1November 1, 1985 – Sterling Benjamin – Win by TKO, Round 1November 13, 1985 – Eddie Richardson – Win by KO, Round 1November 22, 1985 – Conroy Nelson – Win by TKO, Round 2December 6, 1985 – Sammy Scaff – Win by TKO, Round 1December 27, 1985 – Mark Young – Win by TKO, Round 1January 11, 1986 – David Jaco – Win by TKO, Round 1January 24, 1986 – Mike Jameson – Win by TKO, Round 5February 16, 1986 – Jesse Ferguson – Win by TKO, Round 6March 10, 1986 – Steve Zouski – Win by KO, Round 3May 3, 1986 – James Tillis – Win by UDMay 20, 1986 – Mitch Green – Win by UDJune 13, 1986 – Reggie Gross – Win by TKO, Round 1June 28, 1986 – William Hosea – Win by KO, Round 1July 11, 1986 – Lorenzo Boyd – Win by KO, Round 2July 26, 1986 – Marvis Frazier – Win by KO, Round 1August 17, 1986 – Jose Ribalta – Win by TKO, Round 10September 6, 1986 – Alfonzo Ratliff – Win by TKO, Round 2November 22, 1986 – Trevor Berbick – Win by TKO, Round 2March 7, 1987 – James Smith – Win by UDMay 30, 1987 – Pinklon Thomas – Win by TKO, Round 6August 1, 1987 – Tony Tucker – Win by UDOctober 16, 1987 – Tyrell Biggs – Win by TKO, Round 7January 22, 1988 – Larry Holmes – Win by TKO, Round 4March 21, 1988 – Tony Tubbs – Win by TKO, Round 2June 27, 1988 – Michael Spinks – Win by KO, Round 1February 25, 1989 – Frank Bruno – Win by TKO, Round 5July 21, 1989 – Carl Williams – Win by TKO, Round 1February 11, 1990 – Buster Douglas – Loss by KO, Round 10June 16, 1990 – Henry Tillman – Win by KO, Round 1December 8, 1990 – Alex Stewart – Win by TKO, Round 1March 18, 1991 – Donovan Ruddock – Win by TKO, Round 7June 28, 1991 – Donovan Ruddock – Win by UDAugust 19, 1995 – Peter McNeeley – Win by DQ, Round 1December 16, 1995 – Buster Mathis Jr – Win by KO, Round 3March 16, 1996 – Frank Bruno – Win by TKO, Round 3September 7, 1996 – Bruce Seldon – Win by TKO, Round 1November 9, 1996 – Evander Holyfield – Loss by TKO, Round 11June 28, 1997 – Evander Holyfield – Loss by DQ, Round 3January 16, 1999 – Francois Botha – Win by KO, Round 5October 23, 1999 – Orlin Norris – No ContestJanuary 29, 2000 – Julius Francis – Win by TKO, Round 2June 24, 2000 – Lou Savarese – Win by TKO, Round 1October 20, 2000 – Andrew Golota – No Contest (originally Win by TKO, Round 3)October 13, 2001 – Brian Nielsen – Win by RTD, Round 7June 8, 2002 – Lennox Lewis – Loss by KO, Round 8February 22, 2003 – Clifford Etienne – Win by KO, Round 1July 30, 2004 – Danny Williams – Loss by KO, Round 4June 11, 2005 – Kevin McBride – Loss by RTD, Round 6KO = knockout, TKO = technical knockout, UD = unanimous decision, DQ = disqualified, RTD = retired More