Don King stole money from Mike Tyson. This statement has become a notorious part of boxing history, casting a long shadow over the careers of both fighters. The incident not only tarnished the reputation of Don King, a prominent boxing promoter, but also left a lasting impact on the legacy of Mike Tyson, one of the most iconic boxers of all time.
The relationship between Don King and Mike Tyson began in the late 1980s when King, known for his flamboyant style and aggressive business tactics, became Tyson’s promoter. At the time, Tyson was riding high as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, and King was seen as the perfect mentor to guide him through the complexities of the boxing world. However, this partnership would soon turn sour.
According to numerous reports, Don King is accused of embezzling millions of dollars from Tyson’s purse. The allegations stem from a time when Tyson was at the peak of his career, earning tens of millions of dollars per fight. King, who had a reputation for his cutthroat business deals, was accused of taking an excessive percentage of Tyson’s earnings, leaving the boxer with significantly less than he deserved.
The controversy surrounding the money stolen from Mike Tyson came to light when Tyson filed a lawsuit against Don King in 1991. The lawsuit alleged that King had defrauded Tyson out of millions of dollars and sought to recover the lost funds. The case garnered widespread media attention, as it exposed the dark underbelly of the boxing industry and raised questions about the integrity of those who were supposed to be protecting the interests of the fighters.
While the lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, the damage to Mike Tyson’s finances was already done. The money stolen from him during his prime years had a lasting impact on his financial stability and personal life. Tyson’s struggles with money and addiction in the years that followed have often been attributed to the financial setbacks he suffered at the hands of Don King.
The incident between Don King and Mike Tyson serves as a cautionary tale for the boxing world. It highlights the dangers of entrusting one’s financial future to a promoter who may have ulterior motives. For Mike Tyson, the experience was a painful reminder of the trust he placed in Don King, a man who ultimately betrayed him. The story of Don King stealing money from Mike Tyson will likely remain a dark chapter in the annals of boxing history, a stark reminder of the greed and corruption that can sometimes permeate the sport.
