Evander Holyfield, 62, has reignited talks of a third fight with Mike Tyson, 58, following Tyson’s recent bout with Jake Paul at AT&T Stadium. Tyson, who was visibly hampered by a knee injury, struggled to maintain his form during the match, raising concerns about his physical condition. The highly publicized event saw Tyson labor to throw punches effectively, sparking speculation about his readiness to compete.
Holyfield, in attendance at the fight, remarked on Tyson’s performance. “You could see something was wrong with Tyson’s leg. His balance was off,” Holyfield observed. Wasting no time, he took to social media to call out Tyson, writing, “The fans want it #unfinishedbusiness,” alluding to their storied rivalry and hinting at a potential trilogy fight.
However, Tyson quickly dismissed the notion of stepping back into the ring with Holyfield. According to Sporting News, Tyson responded with a heartfelt message that seemed to end any hopes for another rematch. “I love you, brother, but the trilogy is our friendship,” Tyson wrote, emphasizing the bond they’ve developed over the years rather than the idea of another showdown.
Tyson also opened up about the severe health struggles he faced leading up to the fight with Paul, revealing that he had nearly died in June. During a hospital stay, he underwent eight blood transfusions, lost half his blood, and dropped 25 pounds. Reflecting on the experience, Tyson expressed gratitude for being able to fight at all. “To have my children see me stand toe-to-toe and finish eight rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboys stadium is an experience no man has the right to ask for. Thank you,” Tyson said.
Holyfield’s recent boxing record has been equally challenging. His last fight, in 2021, ended in a swift defeat against former UFC champion Vitor Belfort. The bout lasted less than a minute, with Belfort securing a first-round victory. Despite the setback, Holyfield appears eager to rekindle his rivalry with Tyson, pointing to the enduring appeal of their past matchups and the legacy they’ve built over decades in the sport.
The history between Tyson and Holyfield is well-documented, with their first two fights cementing their status as boxing icons. Their 1996 bout ended in an 11th-round stoppage victory for Holyfield, while the infamous rematch in 1997, where Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear, remains one of the most notorious moments in boxing history.
Despite the nostalgia and fan interest, it seems unlikely that the two will meet in the ring again. Tyson’s response, coupled with his recent health challenges, suggests that the former heavyweight champion is prioritizing his well-being and relationships over competition.
For Holyfield, the desire to fight Tyson again may stem from a longing to recapture the glory of the past. Yet, with both fighters in their late 50s and early 60s, the physical toll of such a match could overshadow the thrill of a final chapter in their rivalry.
As it stands, the trilogy fight appears to remain a fantasy for fans, while Tyson and Holyfield continue to navigate life outside the ring, their legacy secure but their future as opponents uncertain.
