Evander Holyfield Wants To Fight Mike Tyson Again, Tyson Reacts

In the world of boxing, few rivalries are as legendary as the one between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson. Their two electrifying bouts in the 1990s are etched into the annals of sports history, marked by fierce competition, raw power, and, of course, that infamous ear-biting incident. Now, decades later, Holyfield is once again calling for a third showdown, and Tyson’s response is already creating waves.

Holyfield Issues the Challenge

At 61 years old, Evander Holyfield remains in remarkable shape and seems determined to revisit the ring one last time with his old adversary. In a recent interview, the four-time heavyweight champion expressed his desire to face Tyson in what would undoubtedly be one of the most highly anticipated comeback fights in boxing history.

“I’ve always been ready,” Holyfield said confidently. “It’s about giving the fans what they want. We’re both still here, we’re both still capable, and there’s unfinished business between us. Why not settle it once and for all?”

Holyfield’s challenge isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about legacy. Despite winning both of their previous encounters, he believes a third fight could be the perfect way to close the chapter on one of boxing’s most intense rivalries. He’s even hinted at using the potential fight to raise money for charity, making the bout more than just a spectacle.

Tyson’s Reaction: Calm But Cautious

Mike Tyson, now 58, has also stayed active in the world of boxing, frequently sharing videos of his intense training sessions. The former undisputed heavyweight champion shocked the world with his physical transformation leading up to his 2020 exhibition fight with Roy Jones Jr. Since then, fans have speculated about whether “Iron Mike” would step into the ring again, and Holyfield’s challenge might be the perfect catalyst.

When asked about Holyfield’s proposal, Tyson reacted with a mix of interest and caution. “Evander is a warrior. He’s always been a warrior,” Tyson said in a recent podcast appearance. “But we’ve been down that road before. I’m not saying no, but I need to think about it. It has to make sense—for us, for the fans, and for the sport.”

Tyson also emphasized the importance of safety, acknowledging the physical toll that another fight could take on both of their bodies. “We’re not young anymore. It’s got to be done the right way if we do it. I respect Evander, and if it happens, it’ll be something special.”

The History That Can’t Be Ignored

The prospect of a third Holyfield-Tyson fight is intriguing not only because of their legendary status but also because of their shared history. Their first bout in 1996 saw Holyfield emerge victorious, winning by TKO in the 11th round and shocking the boxing world. The rematch in 1997, however, became one of the most infamous events in sports history when Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear, leading to his disqualification.

Since then, the two have maintained a complicated relationship, marked by both animosity and reconciliation. In recent years, they’ve appeared together in public, seemingly putting the past behind them. But a third fight could reignite that old competitive fire—and give fans the closure they’ve been waiting for.

Fans Want the Trilogy

The buzz surrounding a potential trilogy fight has already ignited social media, with fans weighing in on the possibility of seeing the two legends face off once more.

“Holyfield vs. Tyson 3? Take my money!” one fan tweeted. “This is the fight we didn’t know we needed in 2024.”

Another fan wrote, “I don’t care if they’re both in their 60s. These two are icons. Let them fight, and let’s relive the glory days of boxing.”

However, not everyone is on board. Some fans and analysts have expressed concerns about the health risks involved, given both fighters’ ages and the physical demands of a boxing match.

“They’ve given us enough,” one boxing analyst commented. “Do we really need to see them put their bodies on the line again?”

What’s Next?

While nothing has been officially confirmed, the momentum behind a potential Holyfield-Tyson III is growing. Promoters are likely eyeing the financial and entertainment potential of such a fight, especially given the success of recent exhibition bouts featuring retired fighters.

If the fight does happen, it could take place as an exhibition match rather than a traditional sanctioned bout, ensuring that both fighters are protected while still delivering the excitement fans crave.

For now, the ball is in Tyson’s court. Will he accept Holyfield’s challenge and give the world one more unforgettable night in the ring? Or will this remain a dream matchup that never materializes?

A Fight for the Ages

Regardless of whether it happens, the mere possibility of a third fight between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson is enough to capture the imagination of boxing fans around the world. It’s a testament to the lasting impact these two legends have had on the sport—and a reminder that some rivalries never truly fade.

As the boxing world watches and waits, one thing is clear: the story of Holyfield vs. Tyson isn’t over just yet. And if both fighters have their way, the final chapter could be written in the ring, where it all began.