Difference Between Ali and Tyson

Boxing is a competitive sport that has been played for a long time. Talking of big names in boxing, Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson top the list. Although these two hit their prime decades apart, they still remain the big names in the sport. Differences in their biographies, their style of boxing and the different personalities cannot be ignored. 

 

Who is Muhammad Ali?

Born on 17th January 1942 in Kentucky, United States, Muhammad Ali is the most celebrated sports figures up to date. He is commonly known for being the first boxer to ever win the heavyweight championship, of which he maintained the title 19 times. He later passed on 3rd June 2016.  

 

Who is Mike Tyson?

Mike Tyson was born on 30th June 1966 in New York, United States, and practiced professional competitive boxing from the year 1985 to 2005. He also holds the record as the youngest boxer to ever win the heavyweight boxing title at only 20 years of age. 

 

Similarities between Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson

  • Both practiced competitive heavy boxing 
  • Both were born in the United States

 

Differences between Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson

  1. Birth

While Ali was born on 17th January 1942 in Kentucky, United States, Tyson was born on 30th June 1966 in New York, United States. 

  1. Total fights

Ali played a total of 61 fights, with 56 wins and 5 losses. On the other hand, Tyson played 58 fights with 50 wins, 6 losses and 2 no contests. 

  1. Style

While Ali threw a variety of punches from ridiculous angles while avoiding using his hands to block the punches, Tyson moved straight ahead while using the peek-a-boo guard to protect his body and face. 

  1. Criminal charges

Ali was charged for draft evasion and charged five years in prison, which was later overturned. On the other hand, Tyson was charged six years in prison for rape charges of which he served three years. 

  1. Speed

Ali was very fast while Tyson had slow speed but was tougher.

  1. Personality

While Ali did not have an intimidating persona, Tyson had an intimidating persona and made men scream and quiver. 

  1. Power 

While Ali was an effective puncher, Tyson was an explosive puncher. 

Ali vs. Tyson: Comparison Table 

 

Summary of Ali vs. Tyson

Both Ali and Tyson are two legends who have helped in setting standards in the boxing career, while also inspiring millions of people. Based on the way they played, both were great in different ways, which enabled bring out the true characters in each.