Mike Tyson Explains Why He Never Considered UFC

Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson recently stated that he would not have been interested in participating in the UFC, even if the company had been at its height during his prime years.

The 59-year-old boxing icon is often considered among the sport’s all-time greats and was once known as the ‘baddest man on the planet’.

His reputation has grown more complicated in recent years as ‘Iron Mike’ has continued to fight, including a notable match against Jake Paul in November 2024.

In a recent discussion, Tyson explained the primary factor in his decision not to switch over to mixed martial arts.

He stated that the potential financial gains from competing in the UFC were significantly lower than those boxing offered during his most successful period.

Tyson also commented on the financial status of UFC’s top fighters, suggesting that the organization could not have afforded his demands.

“The combined earnings of five of the top UFC fighters wouldn’t equal my earnings. I wanted to be the top fighter and earn the biggest purse. When Mike Tyson was fighting, everything stopped,” Tyson remarked.

While prominent figures such as Conor McGregor have substantial net worths, estimated to be around $200 million, Tyson’s career earnings surpassed those figures considerably.

In 1987, Tyson agreed to an eight-fight contract with HBO for $27 million, equivalent to approximately $80 million today.

At his peak, Tyson’s net worth exceeded $430 million, a figure reached two decades ago.

Reportedly, his recent exhibition match against Jake Paul in December 2024 generated approximately $20 million for him.

Boxing has traditionally provided larger payouts to its premier athletes compared to MMA. The height of Tyson’s career did not coincide with the rise of the UFC into the mainstream.

He achieved the title of youngest heavyweight champion ever in 1986 and became the first to simultaneously hold the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles in 1987.

Tyson also ventured into professional wrestling, serving as the special enforcer for the Wrestle Mania main event.