University of Miami star Rueben Bain Jr. is widely regarded as one of the premier defensive players in the 2026 class. Despite his production, his 30 7/8-inch arm measurement has become a focal point of debate heading into April.

Bain revealed that no NFL teams questioned his length during the Scouting Combine. He remains confident it won’t be an issue, famously comparing his leverage and power to Tyson’s.

“Like Mike Tyson . . . he wasn’t the tallest guy. He wasn’t the longest-limbed guy,” Bain told Cameron Wolfe of NFL Media. “But when you felt him, you felt him. You kept your distance.”

Rueben Bain Jr. is projected as a top-15 pick

Despite his status as an elite pass rusher, Bain’s measurements have caused a slight shift in draft boards. Originally projected as a locked-in top-five selection, some analysts now see him sliding into the mid-teens.

According to recent NFL mock drafts, Bain is projected to go No. 12 overall to the Dallas Cowboys. This would be a perfect fit for a Dallas squad that desperately needs to replenish its pass rush following the departure of Micah Parsons.

While other edge prospects like David Bailey and Arvell Reese have impressed scouts with more traditional frames, teams must decide if Bain’s collegiate production—including his 20.5 career sacks—outweighs the “short-arm” stigma.

The Mike Tyson comparison is a bold stance

Mike Tyson dominated heavyweight boxing through explosive power and leverage, earning the title of “The Baddest Man on the Planet.” However, translating that success from the ring to the gridiron is a significant challenge.

While Tyson operated in one-on-one scenarios, Bain must navigate complex blocking schemes and offensive linemen with much greater reach. If he can overcome these physical disadvantages at the professional level, his comparison to the boxing legend may prove prophetic.

Mayweather recently filed a $340 million lawsuit, claiming money is still owed to him from some of his biggest fights. “Money” hasn’t stepped into a ring since his exhibition with John Gotti III in August 2024.

Meanwhile, former kickboxing champion Mike Zambidis announced he’ll fight Mayweather on June 27 in Greece, raising questions about whether Tyson’s long-anticipated bout with Mayweather is still on the table.

Despite the uncertainty, Tyson remains undeterred. When asked by TMZ Sports whether fans will get to see him face Mayweather, the 59-year-old responded:
“Yeah it’s happening. S— yeah it’s happening. You think I’d give that up? I was minding my business, he challenged me.”

Tyson’s fitness boosts his confidence

Tyson says he’s in peak shape and has even dropped a T-shirt size in the process. The former heavyweight champion believes he’s more than ready to step back into the ring against Mayweather.

Conor McGregor has also expressed excitement over the matchup, having spent time with Tyson in Dublin last December. McGregor told Bloody Elbow:
“I’ll tell you what, he [Tyson] won’t lose. I hope it goes ahead, he seems confident it’s going ahead, he’s well up for it.”

Can Tyson still compete against Mayweather?

At 59, Tyson faces the challenge of taking on a nearly 50-year-old Mayweather, who himself hasn’t fought competitively in some time. While McGregor is confident in Tyson, not all fans share that view, questioning whether the fight would carry the same excitement as earlier matchups in boxing history.

The former heavyweight champion has also been linked to a potential showdown with Floyd Mayweather, yet Tyson insists that a return bout with Paul remains a priority. The loss was a learning experience, prompting Tyson to rethink his preparation and intensity in the ring.

“I learned [a lot] from my last fight,” Tyson said, according to Bloody Elbow. “I left a lot of my fight in the gym. I worked too hard. I was too intense; I was too extreme. I need to relax more. That’s what I always believe. I need to relax more.”

Tyson’s challenge

Tyson described how he would change his approach, emphasizing a calmer, more measured strategy. “I think I trained a little bit too intensely, and I left most of my fight in the gym. I’m just hoping, after this Floyd (Mayweather) fight, maybe we can have a rematch. Yes, I would be interested in that. He did well, but I want to try it again.”

Meanwhile, Jake Paul’s next fight against Gervonta Davis was postponed, leaving him in search of a short-notice opponent. Rumors link him to potential bouts with UFC stars, though some analysts caution certain matchups could result in a one-sided defeat.

Tyson’s message is clear: he wants a rematch with Paul, and when it happens, it will feature a revamped game plan designed to leverage lessons learned from their first fight.

Some observers suggested Tyson held back against Paul, citing his age and cautious approach. Rumors swirled online that he may have “taken a dive,” sparking debate about the integrity of the bout.

Tyson has maintained that he wasn’t at his peak against Paul, and he has promised a more focused performance against Mayweather. Now, Tyson’s camp is addressing those claims head-on while providing insight into the status of the Mayweather negotiations.

Were the Jake Paul fight fix rumors true?

Amer Abdallah, a member of Tyson’s camp from the Paul fight, told The Sun: “I’ll tell you the answer is absolutely not. Mike busted his ass five-six days a week in the gym, legitimate sparring partners, legitimate strength and conditioning guys, legitimate nutritionists.”

Abdallah emphasized the effort Tyson put in was extraordinary, even for a younger athlete. He added that the upcoming Mayweather bout is moving forward with serious, professional negotiations: “The discussions with Floyd’s team are very diligent, very structured. The guys that are financing the event are real guys. They put real money up, real deposits. I believe the fight does happen. I really do. I mean, unless something catastrophic happens.”

Tyson vs. Mayweather: A potential spectacle

Tyson, now 59, no longer possesses the physical dominance of his prime, but his name still carries enormous weight in combat sports. His fight with Paul drew 65 million concurrent viewers on Netflix, outpacing even the high-profile Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford matchup.

Fans continue to tune in for Tyson, and a bout with Mayweather would undoubtedly generate massive interest. Promoters remain willing to pay him significant fees to step into the ring, a testament to his enduring legacy. The question now is how long “Iron Mike” can continue competing at such an advanced stage in his career.

Despite the setback, Tyson has embraced the lessons from recent fights and remains committed to delivering an exciting showing in the ring. His third fight since returning to boxing in 2020 against Roy Jones Jr. taught him the importance of staying present and savoring each moment.

In a recent interview with People, Tyson reflected on his career resurgence and the lessons learned from facing younger, active opponents. He remains confident that experience and preparation will pay off in his bout with Mayweather.

What lesson did Tyson take from the Jake Paul fight?

Tyson was candid when asked about his biggest takeaway from the Paul bout. “Just enjoy the moment,” he said. “This moment’s going to be over. Just enjoy it, it doesn’t last forever. I’m just preparing and looking forward. It’s just a wonderful thing that could happen.”

The former undisputed heavyweight champion sees every fight as an opportunity to improve. “It’s going to be really interesting. I can’t believe, since the last time I did this, I’ve fought… What? Two times, going on three times. I’ll do better in the next one,” Tyson added.

Tyson on MMA and purses

Tyson also addressed whether he had ever considered a transition to MMA. “No. Listen, five of the biggest UFC fighters combined couldn’t match my pay. I want to be the biggest fighter, the biggest purse. I want all that stuff. When Mike Tyson fights, he shuts everything down,” he explained.

For Tyson, the focus remains on boxing, maintaining his status as one of the sport’s most dominant draws and delivering performances that captivate fans worldwide.

The boxing world has always thrived on drama, but some nights leave fans stunned and pundits speechless. In the blink of an eye, a dominant champion can fall, rewriting history and reshaping legacies in ways few predict.

Upsets in the ring are more than just shocking results—they are defining moments. From underdogs defying odds to veteran fighters facing unexpected defeats, these bouts reveal the unpredictable heartbeat of the sport.

Boxing history is filled with matches where expectations were shattered. The roar of the crowd, the stunned silence and the scramble for headlines all capture why these monumental upsets and brutal fights remain etched in memory.

James Douglas vs. Mike Tyson (1990)

On February 11, 1990, Mike Tyson entered the ring as an undefeated, undisputed heavyweight champion, a force of nature who had demolished opponents with frightening ease. But in Tokyo, Buster Douglas delivered a performance that would forever alter the sport’s landscape.

Douglas, a 42-to-1 underdog, withstood a knockdown in the eighth round and came back to stop Tyson in the tenth. The upset was so seismic that it is still regarded as the greatest in boxing history.

Max Schmeling vs. Joe Louis (1936)

In 1936, the world was captivated by the undefeated American champion Joe Louis, who was poised to become a symbol of hope during the Great Depression. But in a stunning turn, German boxer Max Schmeling exploited a flaw in Louis’s technique, countering his jab with a right hand that knocked him out in the 12th round. The defeat was a propaganda victory for Nazi Germany, but Louis would avenge the loss two years later with a first-round knockout.

Hasim Rahman vs. Lennox Lewis (2001)

Lennox Lewis was the undisputed heavyweight champion, preparing for a lucrative bout with Mike Tyson. But on April 22, 2001, Hasim Rahman, a 20-to-1 underdog, shocked the world by knocking out Lewis in the fifth round. The upset was so unexpected that it left fans and analysts alike questioning the sport’s unpredictability.

Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Anthony Joshua (2019)

In June 2019, Anthony Joshua was the unified heavyweight champion, a towering figure with an undefeated record. But in Madison Square Garden, Andy Ruiz Jr., a late replacement and 25-to-1 underdog, delivered a stunning performance, knocking Joshua down four times before stopping him in the seventh round. The upset was so significant that it was compared to Buster Douglas’s victory over Mike Tyson.

Leon Spinks vs. Muhammad Ali (1978)

In 1978, Muhammad Ali was the reigning heavyweight champion, but 25-year-old Leon Spinks, with only seven professional bouts, faced him for the title. In a bout that defied expectations, Spinks won a split decision, becoming the heavyweight champion. The victory was so surprising that it earned Spinks a spot on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

Randy Turpin vs. Sugar Ray Robinson (1951)

Sugar Ray Robinson, known as the greatest pound-for-pound fighter, was on a 91-fight winning streak when he faced British boxer Randy Turpin in 1951. In a bout that stunned the boxing world, Turpin outboxed Robinson, winning the middleweight title in a unanimous decision. The upset was so unexpected that it left fans and analysts alike in disbelief.

James Braddock vs. Max Baer (1935)

James “Cinderella Man” Braddock was a struggling boxer, once ranked among the top contenders, who had fallen into poverty. But in 1935, he faced the formidable Max Baer for the heavyweight title. In a bout that defied expectations, Braddock won a unanimous decision, capturing the championship and becoming a symbol of hope during the Great Depression.

Lloyd Honeyghan vs. Donald Curry (1986)

In 1986, Donald Curry was the undisputed welterweight champion, hailed as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters. But in a bout that shocked the boxing world, British challenger Lloyd Honeyghan defeated Curry by technical knockout in the sixth round. The upset was so significant that it was dubbed the “miracle win” and is considered one of the greatest victories in British boxing history.

Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson (1996)

In 1996, Mike Tyson was the undisputed heavyweight champion, known for his ferocious power and undefeated record. Evander Holyfield, a former cruiserweight champion, was seen as a stepping stone for Tyson’s return to the top.

However, Holyfield had other plans. He absorbed Tyson’s early onslaught and began to dominate the later rounds with superior technique and resilience. In the 11th round, Holyfield stopped Tyson, shocking the world and reclaiming the heavyweight title.

Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman (1974)

The “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974 pitted the undefeated heavyweight champion George Foreman against the former champion Muhammad Ali. Foreman was known for his brutal knockout power, while Ali was considered past his prime.

In a strategy that became legendary, Ali allowed Foreman to tire himself out by leaning against the ropes and absorbing punches. In the eighth round, Ali unleashed a series of quick combinations, knocking Foreman out and regaining the heavyweight title.

Fritzie Zivic vs. Henry Armstrong (1940)

On October 4, 1940, at Madison Square Garden, Fritzie Zivic faced the formidable Henry Armstrong for the world welterweight title. Armstrong, known for his relentless pressure and punching power, was expected to dominate.

However, Zivic employed a masterful defensive strategy, frustrating Armstrong throughout the 15-round bout. In the final round, Zivic scored a knockdown, securing a unanimous decision victory and the welterweight title.

Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Marvin Hagler (1987)

In 1987, Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed middleweight champion, known for his aggressive style and dominance in the ring. Sugar Ray Leonard, who had been retired for over three years, returned to challenge Hagler.

Despite doubts about his readiness, Leonard showcased exceptional speed and ring intelligence, outpointing Hagler over 12 rounds. The split decision victory was controversial but marked one of the most significant upsets in boxing history.

Kirkland Laing vs. Roberto Duran (1982)

On September 4, 1982, in Detroit, Kirkland Laing faced the legendary Roberto Duran, a two-division world champion. Duran, known for his ferocious fighting style, was expected to dominate the bout.

However, Laing employed an unorthodox, hands-down approach and constant movement, frustrating Duran throughout the 10-round contest. Despite a controversial split decision, Laing was awarded the victory, earning the upset of the year honors from The Ring magazine.

Frankie Randall vs. Julio César Chávez (1994)

Julio Cesar Chavez, the undefeated WBC super lightweight champion, was considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. On January 29, 1994, Frankie Randall, a skilled and determined challenger, faced Chavez in Las Vegas.

In a bout that defied expectations, Randall outboxed Chavez, scoring a knockdown in the 11th round. The split decision victory for Randall ended Chavez’s 13-year unbeaten streak and was hailed as one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

Antonio Tarver vs. Roy Jones Jr. (2004)

Roy Jones Jr., widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound boxer at the time, faced Antonio Tarver on November 8, 2004, in Las Vegas. Jones, coming off a controversial decision victory over Tarver earlier in the year, was expected to dominate the rematch.

However, Tarver stunned the boxing world by knocking out Jones in the second round with a single left hand. The knockout was so unexpected that it left fans and analysts alike in disbelief.

George Foreman vs. Michael Moorer (1994)

In 1994, George Foreman, at 45 years old, was attempting a comeback against the undefeated heavyweight champion Michael Moorer. Moorer controlled the first nine rounds with his jab and was ahead on the scorecards.

However, Foreman, known for his devastating power, landed a massive right hand in the 10th round that floored Moorer, making Foreman the oldest heavyweight champion in history. The upset was so unexpected that it was compared to Buster Douglas’s victory over Mike Tyson.

Michael Spinks vs. Larry Holmes (1985)

On September 21, 1985, Michael Spinks achieved a historic feat by becoming the first reigning light-heavyweight champion to win a piece of the World Heavyweight Crown.

Facing the formidable Larry Holmes, who was undefeated at 48–0, Spinks employed a tactical approach that outmaneuvered Holmes, securing a unanimous decision victory. This upset not only disrupted Holmes’ quest for a record-breaking 49th consecutive win but also marked a significant milestone in boxing history.

George Foreman vs. Joe Frazier (1973)

The “Sunshine Showdown” on January 22, 1973, saw George Foreman face the reigning heavyweight champion Joe Frazier in Kingston, Jamaica. Foreman, known for his devastating punching power, overwhelmed Frazier in just two rounds, delivering six knockdowns and securing a technical knockout. This dominant performance not only earned Foreman the heavyweight title but also stunned the boxing world, showcasing his formidable prowess.

Iran Barkley vs. Thomas Hearns (1988)

On June 6, 1988, in Las Vegas, Iran Barkley faced the renowned Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns for the WBC middleweight title. Despite being an underdog, Barkley delivered a shocking third-round knockout, earning the “Upset of the Year” accolade from The Ring magazine. This victory not only secured Barkley the middleweight championship but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of boxing.

Carlos Baldomir vs. Zab Judah (2006)

In a surprising turn of events on January 7, 2006, Carlos Baldomir, an unheralded challenger from Argentina, defeated the undisputed welterweight champion Zab Judah at Madison Square Garden.

Baldomir’s relentless pressure and strategic approach led to a unanimous decision victory, with scores of 115–113, 114–113, and 115–112. This upset not only earned Baldomir the WBC and The Ring titles but also disrupted plans for a high-profile bout between Judah and Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Top 10 biggest upsets

Amid the hype, former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has weighed in, offering a unique perspective on what spectators can—and cannot—expect from this unusual pairing. Known for his insight into combat sports, Cormier’s take adds another layer to the growing conversation surrounding the bout.

In a recent statement on his YouTube channel, Cormier declared, “One thing I do know we won’t see is Mike Tyson starch Floyd Mayweather.” He added with a hint of amazement, “Could you imagine if he just knocks out Floyd and Floyd is that much smaller? It would be the most viewed thing you’d ever see on TV. The clips would be the most viral s— you’d ever seen in your life.”

Will Mayweather vs. Tyson produce a knockout?

While the fight promises to be entertaining, Cormier’s prediction suggests that fans shouldn’t expect a dramatic finish. The matchup is as much about spectacle and legacy as it is about pure competition, given Mayweather’s defensive mastery and Tyson’s age and ring rust.

Who else wanted a piece of Mayweather?

The announcement of this high-profile bout also reignited chatter from other fighters eager for a chance in the ring with Mayweather. Notably, Ryan Garcia recently commented on social media that he should have been the one facing the five-division champion, fueling further discussion about potential dream matchups and crossover bouts in boxing.

Garcia, known for his speed and knockout power, recently returned to the ring following a shock loss to Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero in May. The young star is actively seeking his next challenge, and the announcement of Mayweather vs. Tyson provided the perfect platform for Garcia to express his opinion.

In a post on “X” (formerly Twitter), Garcia wrote: “Floyd should’ve just fought me,” ending the message with a shrug emoji. The response was shared widely across boxing circles, highlighting the ongoing tension and excitement surrounding Mayweather’s exhibition matches.

Should Ryan Garcia be the next opponent for Mayweather?

Garcia’s tweet suggests he feels he has earned the right to face Mayweather, especially given his past experience in exhibitions. He previously arranged a fight against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo, though he had to pull out due to a wrist injury. His promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, opposed the exhibition and pursued legal action, highlighting the challenges Garcia has faced navigating fights outside the traditional professional arena.

Despite this, Garcia has maintained a respectful and appreciative stance toward Mayweather, calling him a mentor. “Floyd is mentoring me, and I love and respect him, he is so authentic so stop judging him,” Garcia wrote. His comments reflect the complicated relationship between rising stars and boxing legends, blending admiration with competitive ambition.

What’s next for Ryan Garcia?

With Tyson-Mayweather officially confirmed, fans are left speculating about matchups, weight classes, and potential spectacles. For Ryan Garcia, the focus remains on bouncing back from his recent defeat, securing a rematch with Rolly Romero, or potentially aligning for a high-profile fight with a legend like Manny Pacquiao. Meanwhile, the Mayweather-Tyson exhibition promises to dominate headlines and redefine how fans anticipate crossover boxing events.

In a rare show of blunt honesty, Tyson has issued a warning to Mayweather, emphasizing the health risks involved. The upcoming clash is set to be an exhibition bout under terms still being finalized, but the stakes feel higher than most non-title fights due to the ages and legacies of the competitors.

As the world waits for full details, both fighters have already begun hyping the event through their respective camps. Mayweather, a master of promotional strategy, promises fans a “legendary” performance, while Tyson’s remarks suggest the exhibition may test Mayweather’s limits in ways few have seen before.

Could this mega-fight pose a real danger to Mayweather?

Tyson did not mince words about the risks for Mayweather, stressing the unpredictable nature of the matchup. “I still can’t believe Floyd wants to really do this. It’s going to be detrimental to his health, but he wants to do it, so it’s signed and it’s happening!” Tyson said in a CSI Sports press release.

Mayweather, however, remains confident in his abilities, citing his previous exhibition wins against Logan Paul and John Gotti III. “You already know that if I am going to do something, it’s going to be big and it’s going to be legendary. I’m the best in the business of boxing,” he stated. The contrast between Tyson’s concern and Mayweather’s bravado has created a narrative tension that will likely carry through the fight promotion.

Preparation and legacy in focus

Both camps are emphasizing preparation and promotional storytelling. CSI Sports executives Richard and Craig Miele outlined plans for a global broadcast campaign with innovative in-ring technology to enhance the viewing experience. “Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather are two of the most compelling names and personalities with lasting legacies in all of sports. They are 21st-century icons,” they said.

With the fight confirmed but still lacking regulatory specifics, fans can expect updates on weight class arrangements, rules, and venue announcements in the coming months. Meanwhile, the world speculates whether Mayweather’s legendary defense can withstand the power and experience of Tyson at nearly 60 years old.

What’s next for Tyson and Mayweather?

As preparations continue, both fighters are expected to complete separate training regimens before a final face-off in the ring next spring. Boxing enthusiasts worldwide are monitoring developments, anticipating not just the clash itself but the potential impact on both fighters’ legacies.

After being defeated by Jake Paul in November 2024, many fans believed Mike Tyson wouldn’t step back into the ring again. They were proven wrong.

On Thursday, the legendary boxer announced his next challenge. “Iron Mike” will face Floyd Mayweather in 2026 despite the significant weight difference between them.

What is the actual weight class difference between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather?

The weight gap between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather is obvious. “Iron Mike” is a natural heavyweight, while “Money” is currently a welterweight.

For his bout against Jake Paul, Mike Tyson was listed at 228.4 pounds. As for Mayweather, his last official weight was 154.3 pounds, highlighting the huge difference between them.

The terms of the fight have not been fully disclosed yet. The only confirmed detail is that it will be an exhibition match, primarily due to the physical differences between the two legends.

Why is the Tyson vs. Mayweather bout going to be an exhibition match?

While Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul was at a professional level, this bout against Mayweather will be an exhibition. The vast weight difference and Mayweather’s desire to protect his perfect record are key factors.

Jake Paul challenged Mayweather multiple times, but the legendary pugilist was only willing to participate in an exhibition. As Paul refused that option, Mayweather found Tyson available and agreed to face him under exhibition rules.

The 28-year-old from Phoenix, Arizona turned professional in 2013 and has since captured world titles at super-middleweight and light-heavyweight. Benavidez held the WBC super-middleweight championship twice between 2017 and 2020, defeating top contenders such as Anthony Dirrell, Caleb Plant, and Demetrius Andrade during his reign at 168 pounds.

‘The Mexican Monster’ moved up to light-heavyweight last August, where he claimed the WBC interim light-heavyweight title by defeating Oleksandr Gvozdyk. He successfully defended that belt against David Morrell in February before being elevated to full WBC world champion after Dmitry Bivol vacated the title in April. Benavidez is set to make the first defense of his crown later this year against Britain’s Anthony Yarde at the ANB Arena in Riyadh on Saturday, November 22.

Who did Benavidez consider truly unbeatable in their prime?

While Benavidez’s own career continues to gain momentum, he singled out former four-division world champion Roy Jones Jr. as the fighter who was untouchable at his peak. Speaking to ESNEWS, Benavidez was clear in his admiration for Jones’ unique abilities.

“To be honest with you, I feel like in his prime Roy Jones was untouched by anybody just because of his speed, athleticism, everything was just different, you know. People say God-given talent, I feel like Roy Jones at his physical prime, he had God-given talent,” Benavidez said.

The legacy of Roy Jones Jr.

At the height of his powers, Roy Jones Jr. was widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world. During the 1990s, he defeated some of boxing’s elite, including Mike McCallum, James Toney, and Bernard Hopkins.

Jones spent most of his career competing at super-middleweight and light-heavyweight before making a successful move up to heavyweight in 2003, where he captured the WBA world heavyweight title by dethroning John Ruiz.

Recently, Jones has been linked to a highly anticipated showdown with Floyd Mayweather after a heated social media rivalry, fueling speculation about one of boxing’s most intriguing potential matchups.