Mike Tyson has sharply criticized Floyd Mayweather Jr. after the former champion boldly claimed that he surpasses boxing legend Muhammad Ali in greatness.
Ali, widely celebrated as one of the most iconic figures in boxing history, is renowned for transcending the sport itself. He remains the only fighter to have won the lineal heavyweight championship three times and is remembered for his legendary bouts, including the historic “Rumble in the Jungle” against George Foreman.
In a recent interview with First Post, Mayweather expressed his belief that he is the biggest name in boxing, stating, “I feel like I’ve done just as much in the sport as Ali.” He continued, “It is hard for a guy like me, still sharp at 38. No disrespect to Ali, but I feel like I am the best. Ali lost in his career to Leon Spinks. He lost some other fights and is still known as the greatest. That is what it is.”
Mayweather’s comments have sparked significant backlash on social media, with Tyson himself expressing disbelief at “Money’s” assertions. In a YouTube interview, Tyson was quick to label Mayweather as “delusional.”
“He’s very delusional; he can’t listen,” Tyson stated. “If he were anywhere near the realm of the great Ali, he’d be able to take his kids to school by himself. He can’t take his kids to school by himself and he’s talking about being great? Greatness is not about guarding yourself from the people; greatness is being accepted by the people. He can’t take his kids to school alone. He’s a little scared man… a very small scared man.”
Mayweather retired in 2017 with an impressive undefeated record of 50-0, capping his career with a victory over former dual-weight UFC champion Conor McGregor in a highly-publicized crossover match. Over the years, he has defeated numerous high-profile opponents, including Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez, Shane Mosley, Ricky Hatton, and Oscar De La Hoya. Despite hanging up his gloves, Mayweather has remained active in the sport through various exhibition bouts.
On the other hand, Tyson, regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights in history, captured the heavyweight title with a devastating win over Trevor Berbick in 1986 at the age of just 20. He concluded his professional career in 2005 after a loss to Kevin McBride. However, the now 58-year-old surprised fans last year by announcing his return to the ring, taking on YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. Unfortunately for Tyson, he was unable to reclaim his former glory, as he lost to Paul by decision despite not securing a knockout.
