According to an initial report by World Boxing News, Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson were heading towards a potential second encounter.
During the recent surge in exhibition matches, there was some curiosity surrounding Lewis, the former undisputed heavyweight champion, and the possibility of facing Tyson again.
Despite numerous requests, Lewis had been reluctant to emerge from retirement. However, the right financial incentive might have captured his attention if presented.
Tyson himself even disclosed the fight’s scheduling for September 2021 while engaging with various media platforms.
Referred to as “The Pugilist Specialist,” Lewis’s most recent bout took place in 2003 against the future heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko. Although the victory sparked controversy due to a disputed stoppage, Lewis decided to retire, despite persistent demands for a potential rematch against the Ukrainian.
With a strong belief in the Klitschko brothers’ potential, Lewis gracefully stepped back and expressed his satisfaction with concluding his career on his own terms.
He further emphasized, “I take pride in setting an example for fellow boxers and athletes alike, demonstrating the significance of comprehending every aspect of their business affairs.”
Expressing enthusiasm for boxing’s future, Lewis acknowledged Vitali Klitschko’s disappointment in their inability to meet in the ring again. Nevertheless, he recognized the challenge that lies ahead for Klitschko—to establish himself as the foremost heavyweight of his era, much like Lewis faced years ago.
Looking ahead, Lewis eagerly anticipated witnessing the endeavors of Vitali, Corrie Sanders, and other boxers as they vie for that esteemed distinction.
As I conclude my heartfelt speech in February 2004, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the opponents I have encountered throughout my boxing journey.
This gratitude extends to remarkable boxers such as Ray Mercer, Evander Holyfield, and Mike Tyson, whose formidable presence brought out the finest aspects of my abilities during the pivotal moments of my career.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to every other opponent who bravely stepped into the ring to engage in spirited competition with me. Their contributions are an integral part of my personal narrative, and their names will forever be etched alongside mine in the annals of history.
LENNOX LEWIS & MIKE TYSON REVISITED
After the passage of seventeen years, Lewis shared a photograph of a nostalgic pair of gloves, bearing the name of Tyson.
Accompanying the image, he playfully asked, “Shall I bring these out of storage?”
In another snapshot showcasing him carefully wrapping his hands, the Londoner affirmed that “the journey of transformation always commences within.”
Upon hearing Evander Holyfield’s mention of a potential $100 million earnings for an exhibition rematch against Tyson, Lewis’s curiosity was piqued.
The financial prospects associated with facing either Holyfield or Tyson once more held significant value for the 55-year-old retired boxer.
This scenario unfolded following Mike Tyson’s exhibition bout with Roy Jones Jr., which garnered a remarkable audience of over one million Pay Per View viewers.
These impressive figures sparked expectations of a revival in the era dominated by Lewis, the esteemed 1988 gold medalist.
However, these hopes were dampened when the Tyson vs. Jones exhibition was overshadowed by a surprising showdown between Vitor Belfort and Holyfield.
Fortunately, the situation appears to have calmed down, allowing Lewis to return to a state of relaxation.
Considering the Tyson comeback, no one anticipated Lennox Lewis to step into the ring once more. As Lewis himself expressed, it would require a substantial sum of money to entice him to set aside his leisurely pursuits.
