According To Dana White, Mike Tyson Has ‘Something Big’ Lined Up

Originally pleading with him not to fight, UFC President Dana White has since accepted the fact that Mike Tyson will be returning to the boxing ring for the first time since 2005. After seeing his new physique, White is convinced he can pull anything off.

“Originally, I came out and said, ‘Listen, I’d like Mike not to fight,'” White stated to ESPN’s Brett Okamoto. “I even got Mike a TV show, to try and keep him from fighting. But Mike Tyson is a grown man, he can do whatever. The guy is powerful, looks explosive and has gotten himself in great shape.”

White is good friends with Tyson (50-6, 2NC), who stated a few weeks ago he will be fighting in exhibition bouts for charity. Since his announcement, he has received several offers to compete. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship has offered him more than $20 million to face Wanderlei Silva, CES has offered him $1 million to face an active boxer, and Tito Ortiz is interested in giving Tyson a run for his money. Evander Holyfield, who announced his interest in returning to the ring, stated he would face Tyson again.

It was reported that Tyson could make his decision this week, but nothing is guaranteed. Regardless, White has stated that “Iron” Mike may have a huge announcement to make.

“From what I’m hearing from them, they have something lined up, something big,” White went on to say. “He’s going to get in there. We talked about it and he said, ‘Listen, I feel that fire in my stomach. I want to get in there and mix it up again.’ I’m fully supportive of him.”

White could very well be there for Tyson’s return fight. While he is waiting for his next opponent, Tyson is keeping himself busy. He is currently working with All Elite Wrestling, feuding with Chris Jericho with MMA fighters Henry Cejudo, Vitor Belfort, Rashad Evans.