1. HECTOR MERCEDES, March 6, 1985
Mike Tyson was 18 years old when he made his professional debut. It did not last long, and the journey – perhaps the most engrossing in boxing history – was underway.
2. JESSE FERGUSON, February 16, 1986
The young slayer was already 17-0 (17) when he went in with the world-rated Ferguson less than a year later. Forced into the sixth round by his capable opponent, Tyson’s incessant pressure then forced the referee to haul Jesse out of the contest. Initially ruled a DQ, but later changed to TKO.
3. JAMES TILLIS, May 3, 1986
Tyson, yet to reach 20, was forced to go 10 rounds for the first time by 1980’s perennial contender, “Quick” Tillis. Tyson was a deserved and clear winner, yet some even expected Tillis to get the verdict.
4. MARVIS FRAZIER, July 26, 1986
30 of the most savage seconds of Tyson’s career.
5. TREVOR BERBICK, November 11, 1986
What a terrifying coronation. The night of the spaghetti legs… ORIGINAL FIGHT REPORT
6. TONY TUCKER, August 1, 1987
Just five weeks removed from his 21st birthday, Tyson beat Tucker to claim the IBF title and become the first unified champion since Leon Spinks nine years before. Arguably Tyson’s most complete performance… STORY OF THE FIGHT
7. LARRY HOLMES, January 22, 1988
Former champion Holmes probably wished he hadn’t bothered coming out of retirement for this one. Tyson dealt with the crafty old master in style… ORIGINAL FIGHT REPORT
8. MICHAEL SPINKS, June 27, 1988
This 91-second demolition is widely regarded as Tyson at his best. If you were not around to witness it at the time, it’s hard to believe that Spinks – unbeaten and regarded as the ‘linear’ champion – was favoured by some to win.
9. FRANK BRUNO (rematch), March 16, 1996
It seemed that Tyson – on the comeback trail after lengthy imprisonment – had returned to his monstrous peak when he thrashed Bruno and regained the WBC heavyweight title.
10. CLIFFORD ETIENNE, February 22, 2003
Tyson’s career had been in free-fall – despite some rather chaotic wins – for several years by the time he spectacularly flattened Etienne. This was his final victory.
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