In a dramatic and unexpected twist, the legendary Mike Tyson was knocked down during a sparring session by former heavyweight champion Greg Page. This surprising event occurred shortly before Tyson’s historic upset defeat to Buster Douglas, a loss that shocked the boxing world.
Greg Page, who had retired with a record of 17 losses, was not seen as a significant threat to the then-undefeated Tyson. However, during their sparring session, Page managed to land a powerful blow that sent Tyson to the canvas. This incident raised eyebrows and hinted at vulnerabilities in Tyson’s training camp that many had previously overlooked.
Tyson’s preparation for his fight against Buster Douglas in Tokyo was marred by reports of distractions and lackluster training. The knockdown by Page was a clear indication that Tyson might not have been in his best form. Despite his reputation as an invincible fighter, this moment of weakness foreshadowed the monumental upset that was about to unfold.
On February 11, 1990, in one of the biggest shocks in boxing history, Buster Douglas defeated Mike Tyson by knockout in the tenth round. Douglas, who was a 42-1 underdog, displayed extraordinary skill and determination, exploiting Tyson’s vulnerabilities and securing his place in boxing lore.
The sparring session with Greg Page is now seen as a pivotal moment that exposed cracks in Tyson’s armor. It highlighted the importance of preparation and focus, even for a champion of Tyson’s caliber. This episode serves as a reminder that in the world of sports, nothing is ever certain, and even the greatest athletes can face unexpected challenges.
