In a shocking new video released this week, boxing legend Mike Tyson has opened up about his struggles with depression following his unexpected loss to social media star Jake Paul in a high-profile celebrity boxing match. Tyson, known for his fierce persona both inside and outside the ring, revealed a side of himself that many fans and critics never expected, as he discussed the emotional toll the loss had on him.
Tyson, who had made a successful return to the ring in recent years after a lengthy hiatus, had entered the fight with high expectations, with many predicting that his experience and raw power would overwhelm the younger Paul. However, in a stunning upset, Paul managed to secure a controversial victory, leaving the boxing world in disbelief.
In the candid video, Tyson said, “After that fight, I went into a dark place. I didn’t know how to process the loss, especially to someone like Jake Paul. I felt like I had let down my fans, my family, and even myself. I’ve been through a lot in my life, but nothing hit me harder than that moment.”
Tyson, who once reigned as the youngest heavyweight champion in history, said the aftermath of the loss led him to question his identity and his worth, not only as a boxer but as a man. The emotional video was shared on Tyson’s social media platforms, and it quickly went viral, with fans and mental health advocates praising his vulnerability.
“I’ve had everything in my life—wealth, fame, success. But that doesn’t stop the feelings inside,” Tyson continued. “After that loss, I felt like I was on the verge of losing everything. The depression was real. I didn’t want to talk to anyone, didn’t want to train. I was just lost.”
While Tyson has been open about his struggles with mental health in the past, his admission of feeling severely depressed after the loss to Paul struck a chord with many fans and experts. Tyson’s career has been a rollercoaster, from his rise to dominance in the 1980s to his fall from grace in the 1990s, and his battles with personal demons, including substance abuse and legal troubles. Yet, this latest setback, which many considered a humiliating defeat, appears to have been one of the most difficult moments in his life.
Tyson didn’t shy away from discussing how the public nature of the loss made his depression worse. “I’m a public figure, people watch everything I do, and that fight was all over the news. It wasn’t just a loss in the ring—it felt like the whole world was watching me fall apart. And that made it harder.”
Despite the heavy emotions Tyson shared in the video, he also spoke about his recovery process. “It took time, but I got the help I needed. I talked to my family, my therapist, and other fighters who have been through similar things. It’s been tough, but I’m working through it.”
In the same video, Tyson also took the opportunity to express gratitude to his fans, admitting that their support was instrumental in his healing. “I’ve always had my fans behind me, and that’s what pulled me through. They reminded me that I’m more than just one fight or one loss.”
The video has sparked an outpouring of support from fans, mental health advocates, and even some of Tyson’s fellow athletes. Several notable figures in the boxing community, including fellow former champions like Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield, have sent messages of encouragement, praising Tyson for his honesty.
While the loss to Jake Paul remains a sore point for Tyson, many believe that his openness about his struggles is a testament to his strength and resilience. Tyson’s battle with depression has made him more relatable to millions, proving that even the fiercest warriors face moments of weakness.
Looking ahead, Tyson has not ruled out a return to the ring. Despite his emotional recovery, the 58-year-old boxing icon remains passionate about the sport and seems to be contemplating another comeback. “I’ve still got that fire in me,” Tyson said at the end of the video. “Maybe one day, I’ll be back in the ring. But right now, I’m focused on getting my mind right. That’s the most important fight.”
The video has been widely viewed and praised for its raw emotion and authenticity, shedding light on the mental health challenges even the most powerful athletes can face.