Mike Tyson says Anthony Joshua is The ‘Ferocious’ Fighter He Always Wanted To Be Like

Mike Tyson Hails Anthony Joshua as the ‘Ferocious’ Fighter He Always Wanted to Be Like

 

In a recent interview, boxing legend Mike Tyson has lavished praise on British heavyweight Anthony Joshua, calling him the kind of “ferocious” fighter that Tyson aspired to be during his storied career. Tyson, known for his own relentless aggression and explosive power in the ring, made the comments while discussing the current state of heavyweight boxing and the fighters that impress him today.

 

A Surprising Compliment

Tyson’s admiration for Joshua might come as a surprise to some, given the contrasting styles between the two fighters. During his prime, Tyson was notorious for his intimidating demeanor, ferocious pace, and brutal knockouts that often ended fights within the first few rounds. Anthony Joshua, on the other hand, has been recognized for his more calculated approach, blending boxing fundamentals with immense physical strength. Yet, Tyson sees something in Joshua that resonates with his own fighting spirit.

 

“Anthony Joshua, he’s the kind of fighter I always wanted to be,” Tyson revealed. “He’s got that balance of power and discipline. He can be aggressive when he needs to be, but he’s smart. And that’s what I admire. You can see his desire to dominate in the ring, but he doesn’t lose control. That’s a level of ferocity I aspired to.”

 

Parallels Between Legends

For Tyson, the appeal lies not just in Joshua’s power, but in his ability to remain composed while still exuding a dangerous edge. In his early years, Tyson’s raw ferocity sometimes came at the expense of tactical discipline, which led to his downfall in fights like his shocking 1990 loss to Buster Douglas. Joshua, by contrast, has evolved over the years, becoming a more cerebral fighter after his own setbacks—most notably his 2019 loss to Andy Ruiz Jr.

 

“Joshua’s had his moments where things didn’t go his way,” Tyson continued, “but how he’s come back shows his heart and determination. That’s ferocity. Not just in how you throw punches, but in how you pick yourself up after getting knocked down.”

 

Redemption and Reinvention

Anthony Joshua’s career has been a rollercoaster, defined by major highs and a few painful lows. After winning Olympic gold in 2012, Joshua ascended quickly, capturing the heavyweight crown and becoming a global star. His 2017 victory over Wladimir Klitschko in a dramatic bout cemented his status as one of boxing’s top talents. However, his unexpected loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. shook the boxing world and prompted questions about his ability to handle adversity.

 

In the rematch, Joshua showcased a more measured and strategic side to his game, reclaiming his titles with a disciplined performance. Tyson sees that transformation as a mark of true greatness, the kind of adaptability that makes Joshua a long-term threat in the heavyweight division.

 

“Everyone falls at some point. It’s how you come back that defines you,” Tyson said. “Joshua came back smarter, more dangerous. That’s what being ferocious is all about—overcoming, evolving, and being willing to go through the fire.”

 

Tyson and Joshua: Different Eras, Similar Battles

Though Tyson and Joshua fought in different eras, both have carried the burden of expectation as heavyweights in the public eye. Tyson’s fame, fueled by his destructive performances and personal controversies, made him one of the most recognizable athletes of the 1980s and ‘90s. Joshua, meanwhile, has handled the pressures of being Britain’s top fighter in the age of social media, global sponsorships, and intense scrutiny following his losses.

 

Tyson, reflecting on his own career, acknowledges that Joshua’s mental toughness and ability to navigate these pressures is a crucial element of what makes him stand out today.

 

“I know what it’s like to be under the microscope every day,” Tyson said. “Joshua’s handled it well. He’s still hungry, and that hunger is what makes him dangerous.”

 

The Future of the Heavyweight Division

Tyson’s admiration for Joshua is high praise, especially as the British fighter looks to re-establish himself at the top of the division. With names like Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, and Oleksandr Usyk dominating the conversation around heavyweight boxing, Joshua remains a central figure, despite his recent losses. Tyson believes Joshua still has the potential to become an undisputed heavyweight champion, citing his blend of strength, skill, and ferocity as key to his future success.

 

“I see him as the kind of guy who could dominate for years to come,” Tyson concluded. “He’s got all the tools—now it’s just about putting them all together.”

 

As Anthony Joshua continues his quest for redemption and glory, having a legend like Mike Tyson in his corner, even from afar, is a testament to the respect he commands in the sport. If Joshua can channel the “ferocity” Tyson admires, there’s no doubt that the best may still be ahead for him in the heavyweight division.