Mike Tyson Biography: Age, Height, Wife, Net Worth, Career & Life Facts (2025)

Mike Tyson is a legendary American boxer, widely regarded as one of the most formidable heavyweight champions in the history of boxing. Known for his explosive power, lightning-fast knockouts, and tumultuous personal life, Tyson’s influence extends far beyond the ring, making him a global sports icon and a pop culture phenomenon. His journey from a troubled childhood in Brooklyn to becoming the youngest heavyweight champion has inspired millions worldwide.

Quick Facts

Full Name Michael Gerard Tyson
Profession / Occupation Professional Boxer, Actor, Entrepreneur, Podcaster
Birth Date June 30, 1966
Age 59 years (as of September 2025)
Birth Place Brooklyn, New York, USA
Nationality American
Famous For Youngest Heavyweight Boxing Champion
Known For Boxing, Knockouts, Comebacks, Media Appearances
Ethnicity African-American
Zodiac Sign Cancer
Height & Weight 5 ft 10 in (178 cm), 220 lbs (100 kg)
Hair Color Black (shaved)
Eye Color Dark Brown
Education Custom Model Boxing Club, Catskill High School (did not graduate)
Religion Islam (converted in the 1990s)
Marital Status/Spouse Married to Lakiha Spicer (since 2009)
Relationship Previously married to Robin Givens, Monica Turner
Children 7 children
Relatives Jimmy Kirkpatrick (father), Lorna Tyson (mother)
Hobbies Pigeons, Acting, Podcasting, Cannabis Advocacy
Employer/Organization Tyson Ranch, Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson (podcast)
Years Active 1985–2005 (Boxing), 2006–present (Media & Business)
Net Worth (Estimated) $20 million (2025)

Early Life & Education

Mike Tyson was born on June 30, 1966, in Brownsville, Brooklyn, New York City. Raised in a challenging environment, Tyson faced poverty and crime from a young age. His father, Jimmy Kirkpatrick, left the family early, and his mother, Lorna Tyson, struggled to provide for her children. Tyson’s early years were marked by frequent run-ins with the law, and he was sent to reform school several times.

At the Tryon School for Boys in upstate New York, Tyson’s boxing talent was discovered by counselor Bobby Stewart. Recognizing his potential, Stewart introduced him to legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, who became Tyson’s legal guardian and mentor. Tyson trained rigorously at the Cus D’Amato Boxing Club and attended Catskill High School, though he did not graduate. His early interests included boxing, caring for pigeons, and street fighting, which later shaped his fierce ring persona.

Career Journey

Beginnings & Rise to Fame

  • Made professional boxing debut in 1985 at age 18.
  • Quickly gained attention for his aggressive style and impressive knockouts.
  • Won his first 19 professional fights by knockout, many in the first round.

World Heavyweight Champion

  • Became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at 20 years old by defeating Trevor Berbick in 1986.
  • Unified the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles, becoming undisputed heavyweight champion.
  • Dominated the division with victories over Larry Holmes, Michael Spinks, and Frank Bruno.

Setbacks & Comebacks

  • Lost titles to Buster Douglas in a shocking 1990 upset.
  • Convicted of rape in 1992, serving three years in prison.
  • Returned to boxing in 1995, regaining WBA and WBC titles.
  • Infamous 1997 bout with Evander Holyfield, resulting in disqualification for biting Holyfield’s ear.

Later Career & Retirement

  • Retired from professional boxing in 2005 with a record of 50 wins (44 KOs), 6 losses, 2 no contests.
  • Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011.

Recent Activities & Current Roles

  • Hosts the popular podcast Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson.
  • Founded Tyson Ranch, a cannabis business.
  • Appeared in films, TV shows, and commercials, including “The Hangover” series.
  • Participated in exhibition matches, notably against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020.

Personal Life

Mike Tyson’s personal life has been as eventful as his boxing career. He has been married three times: first to Robin Givens (1988–1989), then to Monica Turner (1997–2003), and currently to Lakiha Spicer since 2009. Tyson is a father to seven children, and he has openly discussed the joys and challenges of parenthood.

Outside the ring, Tyson is passionate about raising pigeons, a hobby he’s cherished since childhood. He is also involved in various business ventures, acting roles, and his podcast. Tyson converted to Islam during his time in prison and occasionally speaks about his faith and personal transformation. He is active in charity work, particularly supporting underprivileged youth.

Awards & Achievements

  • Youngest Heavyweight Champion in history
  • Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion (WBA, WBC, IBF)
  • International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee (2011)
  • Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year (1986, 1988)
  • BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year (1989)
  • WBA Comeback of the Year (1996)

Physical Statistics

  • Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
  • Weight: 220 lbs (100 kg)
  • Eye Color: Dark Brown
  • Hair Color: Black (shaved)
  • Build: Muscular, Athletic
  • Tattoo: Facial tattoo (Māori-inspired)

Quotes

  • “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
  • “I’m the best ever. I’m the most brutal and vicious, the most ruthless champion there’s ever been.”
  • “Discipline is doing what you hate to do but doing it like you love it.”

Controversies

Mike Tyson’s career has been marked by several controversies. In 1992, he was convicted of rape and served three years in prison. His 1997 fight against Evander Holyfield, where he bit Holyfield’s ear, remains one of the most infamous moments in sports history. Tyson has also faced legal and financial troubles, including bankruptcy in 2003. Despite these issues, he has worked toward personal growth and public redemption in recent years.

Favorites

  • Favorite Boxer: Muhammad Ali
  • Favorite Food: Italian cuisine
  • Favorite Movie: Scarface
  • Favorite Animal: Pigeon
  • Favorite Music: Old-school hip-hop

Salary & Net Worth

As of 2025, Mike Tyson’s estimated net worth is around $20 million. During his boxing career, he reportedly earned over $400 million in purses and endorsements. However, financial mismanagement and legal issues led to bankruptcy in 2003. Tyson has since rebuilt his wealth through business ventures such as Tyson Ranch (cannabis), media appearances, acting, and his successful podcast. His current earnings come from brand endorsements, public speaking, and entertainment projects.

Interesting Facts

  • Mike Tyson holds the record for the youngest heavyweight champion at 20 years, 4 months.
  • He has a distinctive facial tattoo inspired by Māori tribal art.
  • Tyson is an avid pigeon enthusiast and has kept pigeons since childhood.
  • He made cameo appearances in movies like “The Hangover” and “Ip Man 3.”
  • Tyson converted to Islam and took the name Malik Abdul Aziz.
  • He launched a cartoon series, “Mike Tyson Mysteries,” on Adult Swim.

Social Media Links

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How old is Mike Tyson in 2025?
    Mike Tyson is 59 years old as of September 2025.
  • Who is Mike Tyson’s wife?
    Mike Tyson is married to Lakiha Spicer since 2009.
  • What is Mike Tyson’s net worth?
    Mike Tyson’s estimated net worth is $20 million in 2025.
  • How tall is Mike Tyson?
    Mike Tyson stands 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
  • What is Mike Tyson famous for?
    He is famous for being the youngest heavyweight boxing champion and for his powerful knockouts.
  • What are Mike Tyson’s main business ventures?
    Tyson Ranch (cannabis), Hotboxin’ podcast, acting, and brand endorsements.

Conclusion

Mike Tyson’s life story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and raw talent. From conquering the boxing world to navigating personal challenges, he remains one of the most influential athletes of all time. Tyson’s legacy continues through his media presence, business ventures, and inspirational journey. Share this article if you found it insightful, and join the conversation about the enduring impact of Mike Tyson.

Sources: ESPN, BBC Sport, Biography.com, Forbes, International Boxing Hall of Fame, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated

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