Teddy Atlas worked with Mike Tyson during the early stages of the heavyweight’s career.
‘Iron Mike’ went on to become one of the most formidable fighters in boxing history, bursting onto the scene as a youngster and winning his first 19 fights by knockout, 12 of them in the first round.
He became the youngest world heavyweight champion in history when he knocked out Trevor Berbick to win the WBC title at the age of 20 years, 4 months and 22 days, before going on to become undisputed in the division.
Despite all of his success, trainer turned analyst Atlas believes there is a heavyweight legend that would have ‘pulverised’ Tyson in his prime were they ever to meet.
Speaking on his The Fight With Teddy Atlas YouTube Channel, Atlas discussed how ‘Iron Mike’ compared to former world heavyweight champion Sonny Liston.
“Him [Liston] fighting Tyson. He could match Tyson’s power, his technique, he was the bigger guy.”
Atlas then explained how he feels Tyson would have coped with the famous jab of Liston.
“Tyson would be at the end of that jab like a coyote at the end of a locomotive, flat, pulverised, bang. That jab would have hit him and sent a physical and mental message. You’re in the wrong place, at the wrong time, get the hell out.”
Finally, Atlas gave his prediction for how the fight would have ended.
“Tyson gets knocked out in the fight.”
Liston became world heavyweight champion in 1962 with a first round knockout win over Floyd Patterson, before losing his crown 18 months later to Muhammad Ali. He ended his career with a record of 50 wins and 4 defeats, with 39 of his victories coming by knockout.
