Mike Tyson proudly owns three beloved tigers, a testament to his peak success and wealth. Known as “Iron Mike,” he earned a fortune throughout his legendary boxing career, facing off against formidable opponents like Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis after becoming the youngest heavyweight champion by defeating Trevor Berbick.
A Life of Luxury and Exotic Animals
At 58, Tyson has achieved almost everything he ever dreamed of, including acquiring exotic animals that few can afford, regardless of their bank balance. His next opponent, Jake Paul, is also aware that Tyson has housed these majestic tigers, one of which lived with him for 16 years before a tragic incident forced him to give it up.
The Story Behind Tyson’s Tigers
In December 2022, Tyson revealed on his podcast, Hotboxin‘, that he purchased the three tigers from the “black market.” He shared that the seller offered him a fully grown tiger for $70,000 or a baby tiger for about $50,000. Tyson humorously recounted, “So, I got the baby. We bottle-fed it, and eventually, it weighed 400 pounds. Then I thought, how do I get rid of this big cat?”
What happened to Mike Tyson’s tiger?
At one point, Mike Tyson owned three Bengal tigers. These majestic creatures were not just pets; they were an integral part of “Iron Mike’s” vibrant life. When he first adopted them, they were adorable newborns, but their rapid growth soon made Tyson reconsider his responsibilities.
When asked if the tigers ever exhibited aggression, Tyson confidently stated, “Not towards me. Never towards me.” However, the last tiger he owned eventually injured someone, resulting in Tyson having to pay $250,000 in damages.
In a previous interview with GQ, Tyson explained that health issues led to his decision to part with his final tiger. Yet, he casually mentioned that the tiger had also “severed someone’s arm,” adding a shocking twist to the tale.
Conclusion
Mike Tyson’s life, filled with incredible wealth and unique experiences, illustrates both the wonders and challenges of owning exotic animals. The story of his tigers not only showcases his wealth but also raises questions about the responsibilities that come with such ownership.
