In the 1990s and 2000s, Mike Tyson, at the height of his fame and fortune, became the proud owner of three tigers, each costing him $50,000.

Known as ‘Iron’ Mike, Tyson was not only the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world but also a figure synonymous with extravagance, thanks to his immense earnings from boxing.

Tyson’s career was illustrious, marked by historic bouts against notable fighters like Evander Holyfield and Michael Spinks. He made history as the youngest heavyweight champion ever by defeating Trevor Berbick. The combined purses from his fights amassed to hundreds of millions, enabling him to afford almost anything money could buy, including exotic animals.

The acquisition of his tigers was serendipitous. During a chance meeting, Tyson encountered an individual dealing in exotic animals. This person offered Tyson the opportunity to buy tigers, an option typically out of reach for most people regardless of their wealth. Tyson recalled on his Hotboxin’ Podcast, “It was through the black market. This guy was selling them and said, ‘I can get you a full-grown one for $70,000 or I can get a small one for like $50,000.’ So, I got the baby.”

Tyson raised the tiger cubs at his home, bottle-feeding them until they grew larger. As the cubs became full-sized tigers, the logistics and challenges of keeping such powerful animals became evident. Tyson decided to donate two of the tigers to a sanctuary, ensuring they had the appropriate environment and care they needed. However, he kept one of the tigers for an impressive 16 years, showcasing his attachment and dedication to these majestic creatures.

Tyson’s life with his tigers was filled with memorable moments and unique challenges. He recounted, “We fed the baby with a bottle and then eventually she’s 400lbs. And then you figure out – how do I get rid of this motherf***er?!” This candid reflection highlights the complexities and unexpected aspects of owning such animals.

Beyond the ring, Tyson’s ownership of these tigers added to his legendary persona, making him a figure of fascination not just for his boxing prowess but also for his extravagant lifestyle. His story of acquiring and living with tigers remains a captivating chapter in the life of one of boxing’s most enigmatic figures. Tyson’s experiences with his tigers reflect his unpredictable and larger-than-life character, further cementing his status as a true icon both inside and outside the ring.