In a bold and controversial statement, former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has criticized Mike Tyson, questioning the legitimacy of his legacy in boxing. Wilder, who has had his own share of challenges in the heavyweight division, took aim at Tyson’s list of accomplishments, suggesting that Tyson’s career is often overhyped.

During a recent interview, Wilder suggested that Tyson’s list of victories over Hall of Fame boxers isn’t as impressive as many claim. “He only beat two Hall of Famers – Holyfield and maybe a couple of others, but that’s it,” Wilder stated. “Lennox Lewis beat him, and that’s the truth.” Wilder’s comments have sparked a fierce debate about Tyson’s place in boxing history, with some agreeing with Wilder’s assessment, while others defend Tyson’s legendary status.

Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at 20 years old, dominated the sport in the late 1980s. His knockout power and aggressive fighting style made him a global sensation. However, as his career progressed, Tyson faced setbacks, including his losses to Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis in the 1990s. Wilder’s criticism points to these losses as evidence that Tyson’s reign was not as unchallenged as many believe.

Wilder’s remarks come at a time when the heavyweight division is in the spotlight, with his own career being closely scrutinized after his trilogy with Tyson Fury. After two losses to Fury, Wilder is eager to rebuild his reputation and prove himself against other top contenders like Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk. Wilder’s aggressive comments about Tyson can be seen as part of his strategy to assert himself in the current heavyweight landscape.

While Tyson’s career is undeniably filled with iconic victories, Wilder’s criticism highlights the ongoing evolution of the sport. He suggests that the heavyweight division has changed, and that modern fighters, including himself, face challenges that Tyson didn’t encounter. “I’ve fought the best of the best, just like Lennox Lewis did,” Wilder added, implying that Tyson’s dominance came at a time when competition wasn’t as fierce.

Wilder’s attack on Tyson also raises questions about the importance of legacy in boxing. Tyson’s contributions to the sport and his impact on popularizing heavyweight boxing are undeniable. But for Wilder, who is still very much in the prime of his career, the focus is on facing the best and proving himself against today’s top fighters. As he prepares for his next challenge, Wilder’s comments suggest that he is determined to forge his own legacy, one that he hopes will be even more impressive than Tyson’s.