WATCH | Possible Mike Tyson return raises questions for promoter Eddie Hearn

14 May 2020 - 10:23

By Reuters

Former boxing superstar Mike Tyson looking in good spirits and health before the WBC Heavyweight title fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury at the Grand Garden Arena at MGM Grand, Las Vegas, United States on February 22, 2020

Image: REUTERS/Steve Marcus/File Photo Former boxing superstar Mike Tyson looking in good spirits and health before the WBC Heavyweight title fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury at the Grand Garden Arena at MGM Grand, Las Vegas, United States on February 22, 2020

British promoter Eddie Hearn says he would probably like to see former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson fight again but has questioned whether boxing should be encouraging a 53-year-old to get back in the ring.

Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight champion of all time when he beat Trevor Berbick in 1986 aged 20, caught the attention of the boxing world by posting training videos on Instagram and has said he was considering exhibition bouts to raise money for charity.

I’m a Bad Boy for Life. Watch #BadBoysforLife now on DVD Blueray @realmartymar #willsmith #stillthebaddestmanontheplanet pic.twitter.com/R9Zmz19GFm
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) May 1, 2020

"I would probably like to see it but ... is it a bit irresponsible to let a 53-year-old legend back in the ring?" Hearn told British Boxing Television.

"I had a message from someone saying they wanted to talk to me about Mike.

"He looks pretty dangerous. What's compelling is could he actually go back in at 53 and do some damage? But should we be encouraging that from an all-time great?

My 1st week back in the gym and I feel great I'm looking forward to stepping up my training sessions and intensity as I prepare for my fight.

I told you I had something for you🥊@ReneeYoungWWE @BookerT5x @TheMarkHenry @WWEonFOX @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/ncgeJMTkmE
— Evander Holyfield (@holyfield) May 13, 2020

"There's a fine line and I've crossed it a couple of times -- between integrity of the sport and entertainment delivering numbers.

"Our job is to deliver numbers for broadcasters but we have to keep it as close to the right mark as we can."

Former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield has also released a training video on social media, fuelling speculation that he could come out of retirement to face one-time rival Tyson.