Knockout machine Mike Tyson truly seemed like an unstoppable force before being dealt his first-ever loss.
In Tyson’s controversial meeting with James ‘Buster’ Douglas, he was bested and finished in the 10th round in Tokyo.
The loss would see Tyson drop his WBA, WBC, and IBF World Heavyweight titles, as his record fell to 37-1. However, one of the greatest heavyweights of all time would be able to return to the win column in his next outing.
Mike Tyson bounced back emphatically from Buster Douglas loss
Despite losing his fight to Douglas via stoppage, a 23-year-old Tyson would return to the ring in June 1990, just four months after tasting defeat.
Looking to bounce back, Tyson would face Henry Tilman (20-4) in a non-title bout. The event would take place at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, also featuring George Foreman.
Tilman was a former Evander Holyfield opponent, however, he would not survive to see the second round against Tyson.
A brutal right hand would land on the top of Tilman’s head as he went crashing down to the canvas. Tilman was counted out as he lay flat on his back, unable to return to his feet.
After the finish, Tyson went over to his opponent to check on Tilman, aiming to assist him.
Mike Tyson would once again become world champion in 1996
Dropping his world titles in 1990, Tyson would have to wait another six years before he could once again become a world champion.
Tyson’s win over Tilman was his first of six victories after his defeat to Douglas which led him to a world title opportunity. To become a two-time champion, he would stop Frank Bruno.
A 29-year-old Tyson would stop Bruno early in round three as he dethroned the Englishman.
However, Tyson would vacate the belt just months after claiming the WBC title to pursue a fight with Holyfield.