Mike Tyson lost to Jake Paul last year (Image: Getty Images for Netflix A 2024)
Boxing icon has reportedly splashed out nearly £11million on a lavish mansion in Florida, just two months after his bout with . The 58 year old, who hung up his gloves in 2005, stunned fans when he returned to the ring to face fellow legend Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition match in 2020.
Despite expectations that it would be a one-off event, ‘Iron Mike’ made a sensational comeback to professional boxing last year, taking on the YouTuber-turned-boxer. Tyson trained hard for the fight, sparking hopes he could turn back time. However, his age was evident on the night of the fight. Although he wasn’t knocked out, the former heavyweight world champion lost by unanimous decision in Texas.
The match was a hit on , and both fighters were rewarded for their efforts. It’s unclear how much each man made from the fight, but reports suggest Tyson pocketed around $20m (£16m), which he has quickly spent.
According to the Palm Beach Post in Florida, Tyson has spent a staggering $13m on a new property. A special warranty deed filed earlier this week shows Tyson now owns a massive 2.7-acre lot, one of only 78 properties in the Tierra del Rey Estates. As part of his purchase, the American also has access to a private lake.
Tyson’s spokesperson, Joseph Jonathan Schneider, commented on the recent property transaction stating: “This has been a successful transaction with all the parties demonstrating professionalism and collaboration. The Tyson family has been a valued client and friend for many years, and it’s been a pleasure working with them.”
Back in November, estate agent Matthew Maschler explained the allure of the Tierra del Rey Estates – meaning ‘Land of the Kings’ – as influenced by Tyson’s daughter’s tennis commitment saying: “Basically, the appeal to him is his daughter plays tennis, and she plays in Delray, so he wants to be able to fly in, go see his daughter’s tennis match, go back to his plane and fly to wherever he came from.”
After enduring a nearly fatal health scare in the lead-up to the Paul bout, Tyson remarked on his retirement: “This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time. I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.”
He then expressed gratitude for the chance to perform once more in front of a large audience: “To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish eight rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you.”