Recently, Don King, the iconic boxing promoter, has been the subject of concern due to his health issues. It was reported that King had to spend over a week in the hospital dealing with several health problems. Throughout his 10-day hospitalization, the 93-year-old received a blood transfusion and is now recuperating at home.
During an appearance on Cam’ron and Mase’s podcast “It Is What It Is,” Mike Tyson, once promoted by King, shared updates regarding King’s health. Tyson expressed his worries, commenting, “Don is not doing well right now. He’s probably close to 100 years old, he’s not doing well.”
Tyson and King’s relationship has seen its fair share of complexities. Tyson filed a $100 million lawsuit against King in the late ’90s, accusing him of financial misdeeds, though this was settled out of court for $14 million, leading to their professional separation in the early 2000s. Despite this tumultuous past, Tyson admits that the experience has been an educational one about the intricacies of boxing business.
Reflecting on the lessons learned, Tyson said, “I believe Don King pretty much educated me. That will never happen again. It’s an experience—maybe something else will happen, but that’s not gonna happen again.”
Don King has left an indelible mark on the world of boxing, having promoted several of the sport’s luminaries such as Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Evander Holyfield, Julio Cesar Chavez, and Roberto Duran. His knack for orchestrating memorable fights, particularly those featuring Ali and Foreman, has cemented his reputation in the annals of boxing history.
Even as he recovers from his recent health ordeal, King’s significant contributions to boxing are unmistakable. While he was often a controversial figure, his influence on the sport and on the careers of the boxers he promoted is profound.
King is not just known for his promotional skills but also for his distinctive personality and his iconic, gravity-defying hairdo. His role in crafting some of the most significant moments in boxing is substantial, and his impact is felt even amidst his current health struggles.
In a reflective statement about their past, Tyson reiterated, “You know, Don is not doing well right now. He’s probably close to 100 years old, he’s not doing well.” This highlights the blend of respect and appreciation Tyson holds for King despite their past conflicts.
As King goes through his recovery process, the boxing community and fans worldwide are extending their best wishes. His lasting legacy in the sport demonstrates his significant influence, which is likely to be recognized for many more years.
