Today in Sports History: July 21

In 1989, former American professional boxer, Mike Tyson knocked out (KO’d) former American professional boxer, Carl Williams, in 1 minute and 33 seconds to win the heavyweight boxing title. 

Tyson, at age 20, became the youngest heavyweight champion within boxing history. His amateur record was 24-3 and then turned professional in 1985. Tyson lacked the classic heavyweight boxer’s look but was quick and aggressive while in the ring. 

His overall professional record was 58 total fights, 50 wins, 6 losses, and 44 knockouts. Tyson won the World Boxing Council in 1986, won the World Boxing Association heavyweight championship, and the International Boxing Federation championship in 1987. 

Tyson’s most memorable fight to date was his win against Michael Spinks and Larry Holmes. He dominated his opponents and really made a name for himself.

Tyson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011 and in 2013 into the Vegas Hall of Fame.  15 years later, Tyson came out of retirement to be back in the ring and back in the right headspace. 

At age 54, for one exhibition match Tyson boxed against Ray Jones Jr, who was 51, in November of 2020. After 8 rounds, the match was declared a tie.