Mike Tyson left Muhammad Ali’s famous manager Gene Kilroy stunned as he watched the 58-year-old legend train.
Tyson is set to return to the ring when he takes on YouTube star Jake Paul on November 15, in a surprise professional bout.
Tyson looked powerful and in impressive shape
The boxing world has shown significant concern over the condition that ‘Iron Mike’ will return in given he is far from his prime, and has suffered a raft of health issues.
But he has been taking part in a full training camp nonetheless, and has been sparring and working out as normal in his gym with weeks until the fight arrives.
Tyson’s long-term friend and legendary heavyweight Ali’s ex-manager Kilroy made a visit to the home of his preparations and the pair chatted as he worked out.
Kilroy remarked after seeing his condition: “This is the strongest I’ve ever seen you.
“And I’ve known you since you were 13. This impresses the s*** out of me. Nothing impresses me.
“I’m going to tell you the truth. I don’t lie. I was worried about him travelling here, travelling there. I can sleep now at night. This is great.
“I’m proud of you, Mike. I’m proud of you. It’s a new generation. You done more workouts than what I’ve seen you do the whole time you fought Lennox Lewis. Am I right or wrong?
Tyson then replied: “Different era brother. It’s a whole new ball game.”
He proceeded to show off his current shape, getting tested on a series of machines.
The heavy handed legend then decided to let his hands go on the heavy bag.
Kilroy was visibly stunned and impressed with his shape
The veteran let rip some thunderous shots into the bag which were met by a smile from Kilroy, who was very impressed with his current level.
It is clear that the American was concerned by Tyson stepping in the ring again, particularly given he has already withdrawn from the contest once after suffering an ulcer flare up.
Tyson hasn’t fought competitively since 2005 when he retired after a devastating final defeat to Kevin McBride.
He returned in an exhibition with Roy Jones Jr in 2020, which was more evenly matched but it promises to be a daunting match against 26-year-old Paul.
And despite his rival being in his physical prime, Tyson is confident he is a different animal in the ring.
He said: “He can fight boxers his level. I do not believe [he’s on my level], not at all.
“[The fight will be] not long, because as soon as I catch him he’s gonna run like a thief.
“I don’t see how he’s gonna make an exciting fight by running all day.
“He’s supposed to be the young guy, he’s supposed to walk right through me, I’m an old man.
“He’s gonna run all f****** night. I think he should try [standing toe-to-toe], he’s the younger man, he should be able to handle punches from an old withering man like me.”