Evander Holyfield On Mike Tyson: 'He Had Punching Power But I Was Skillful'

Boxing legend Evander Holyfield has opened up about the differences between him and former heavyweight rival Mike Tyson.

Tyson and Holyfield are two of the greatest heavyweight fighters of all time. The pair shared the ring twice during their prime, and though Tyson was always the crowd favorite, it was Holyfield who got the better of “Iron Mike” twice.

Along with Lennox Lewis, Holyfield is one of few fighters who were able to decisively stop the power of Tyson. Even after officially calling it a career, Holyfield is still often asked about how he managed to humble “The Baddest Man on the Planet.”

Speaking on social media (via Boxing News and Views), Holyfield made a brave admission about him and his nemesis. According to the former champ, Tyson was probably way stronger than him, but he was more skilled as a boxer.

“I would admit that no one would out work Tyson in the gym back in his younger days. I watched him and I say man, gosh, man, he is good. He can do everything good and he had the punching power that he knocked all the people out. I didn’t have that kind of power but I was a skillful boxer,” Holyfield explained.

Indeed, “The Real Deal” has outpaced his opponents with his ring knowledge. However, Holyfield also said that he didn’t become a world-class fighter just because of his skills.

In an exclusive interview with Elie Seckbach of EsNews in February, the 57-year-old insisted that having no fear led him to where he is today.

When asked why he was never scared of Tyson, the legendary fighter explained that there is no room for fear inside him as he believes greatness can only be achieved if fear doesn’t exist.

“I wasn’t afraid, I wasn’t afraid of nobody. You only be great if you don’t have that fear. And fear is not a feeling. It’s what you do. If you would punch me, I’m gonna punch you. I’ve got to get mine before you get yours,” Holyfield said.

Shortly after Tyson announced his boxing return, Holyfield also said that he’s back. After 23 long years, their rivalry resurged as both boxing legends verbally agreed to give it another go.

Tyson has been linked to several challengers, but many believe that a third fight between him and Holyfield would be best for both the sport and the fans.