Mike Tyson’s Post-Prison Fights- A Look Back at the Boxer’s Return to the Ring

Who did Mike Tyson fight after prison? This question often arises among boxing enthusiasts and fans of the legendary fighter. After serving a lengthy prison sentence for a 1991 rape conviction, Mike Tyson returned to the boxing ring with a mix of anticipation and skepticism from the public. His comeback fights were closely watched, as many wondered if the “Baddest Man on the Planet” could still compete at the highest level. Let’s delve into the details of his post-prison boxing career.

Tyson’s first fight after his release from prison took place on June 7, 1995, against Peter McNeeley. The fight was a highly anticipated event, as it marked Tyson’s return to the ring after a four-year hiatus. Despite the passage of time and the fact that McNeeley was a much smaller and less experienced opponent, Tyson seemed out of shape and struggled to find his rhythm. The fight ended in the third round when McNeeley knocked out Tyson, marking the first time in his career that he had been knocked out in the ring.

The defeat against McNeeley was a wake-up call for Tyson, who realized that he needed to work on his conditioning and technique. He then embarked on a comeback campaign, facing a series of opponents who were often considered less than formidable. In his next fight, Tyson faced Lou Savarese on September 15, 1995. The fight was a close one, with Tyson eventually prevailing by a split decision. This victory was followed by a string of fights against lesser-known opponents, where Tyson continued to refine his skills and regain his confidence.

One of the most notable fights during this period was against Michael Spinks on June 11, 1996. The fight was a highly anticipated rematch, as Spinks had defeated Tyson in a controversial decision in 1990. This time, the fight was a technical knockout in the second round, with Tyson once again displaying his raw power and determination. The victory over Spinks was a significant step in Tyson’s comeback journey.

As his career progressed, Tyson faced a mix of challenges, including legal issues and personal struggles. Despite these setbacks, he continued to fight, facing opponents such as Andrew Golota, Kevin McBride, and others. While some of these fights were less than memorable, Tyson’s resilience and determination to return to the top of the boxing world were inspiring.

In conclusion, Mike Tyson fought a variety of opponents after his release from prison, including some high-profile names like Peter McNeeley and Michael Spinks. Although his post-prison boxing career was not as dominant as his earlier years, Tyson’s ability to overcome adversity and return to the ring is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time.