Boxing legend Mike Tyson has revealed his love for Irish fighters, having named a list of his favourites.
Iron Mike, the youngest ever heavyweight champion, fought two Irish fighters in his illustrious career against Mike Jameson in 1986 and Kevin McBride in 2005.
Ireland have a long history of talented fighters, including Barry McGuigan, Katie Taylor and Carl Frampton. However, Tyson revealed numerous other names he admired while dominating the world scene.
Speaking to iFL TV, the 58-year-old said: “You know how many great Irish fighters [there are]. Johnny Kilbane is [one of my favourites].
“Let’s see, I like Mike McTigue, Jack Dempsey [is] my favourite Irish fighter.”
Kilbane was born in the US to Irish parents who were from Achill Island in County Mayo. He was regarded as one of the greatest featherweight boxers of all time, holding the title for 11 years.
McTigue, born in Kilnamona, ruled the light heavyweight division as champion between 1923 and 1925. He arrived in the US in 1912 but returned to Dublin 11 years later to take on Battling Siki at La Scala Opera House for the title.
Dempsey was born in Colorado but had Irish roots through his father. He was the heavyweight champion from 1919 to 1926, and his reputation as one of the great heavyweights remains firmly intact.
Meanwhile, Tyson believes Tyson Fury should come out of retirement to take on Anthony Joshua in an all-British affair. For one reason or another, the two heavyweights have resisted the public demand to have a historic fight.
Tyson added: “I think that’s beautiful for both of them. They both can go home and take care of their family, with a big payday.
“I think that’s great. They both had sceptical last fights, but I think it’ll still be a fight that the fans would like to watch and I would too.”
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