
08/12/2025
After the infamous 1997 bout known as the ""Bite Fight,"" Mike Tyson had defeated Evander Holyfield but felt a deep sense of regret over the incident. Tyson soon learned that Holyfield was recovering in the hospital after losing a piece of his ear during the match.
One evening, quietly and without any fanfare, Tyson drove himself to the hospital to visit Holyfield. Walking into the room, Tyson offered a sincere apology.
“I never wanted it to get that far,” Tyson said softly. “We battled fiercely in the ring, but outside of it, I respect you — more than you know.”
Holyfield, surprised but touched, nodded in appreciation. That visit laid the foundation for a complicated but genuine friendship, showing the world that even after one of boxing’s most notorious moments, respect and humanity can prevail beyond the fight.