Tyson Bites Holyfield: Boxing Chaos Erupts
Mike Tyson bit Evander Holyfield's right ear during the third round of their WBA Heavyweight Championship rematch on June 28, 1997, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. After the initial bite removed a small piece of Holyfield's ear, referee Mills Lane deducted two points and allowed the fight to continue. Tyson then bit Holyfield's left ear in a subsequent clinch. Lane disqualified Tyson, triggering a near-riot in the arena. The Nevada State Athletic Commission fined Tyson $3 million, the maximum allowable, and revoked his boxing license for one year. Tyson claimed Holyfield had been headbutting him throughout both fights and that he "just snapped." The incident became one of the most infamous moments in sports history and permanently damaged Tyson's reputation. His boxing license was eventually reinstated in 1998.
June 28, 1997
29 years ago
Key Figures & Places
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