This Is Cheshire

Boxing - Tyson - Cause for concern?

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 27th Feb 2003.

A total of 49 seconds, was it really worth getting out of bed for last Saturday? No. I can't believe I fell for it yet again.

Suckered into watching Tyson's comeback, at least I didn't pay for it!

I find it amazing that pundits tried to draw positives out of that quick-fire destruction of Clifford Etienne. Even Lennox Lewis tried his best to respond a couple of days later saying he looked good and threw some decent shots.

I saw no positives and plenty to worry about.

Let's be honest, Etienne was handpicked as the perfect sell of a rejuvenated Tyson, ready to avenge his last defeat in a rematch with our WBC Champ.

Etienne lacked both the power and the chin to ever trouble him. His state of mind gave cause for concern, evident from the post-fight interview.

Tyson said he didn't want to fight Lewis again because he didn't want to get beat up, then he said he wanted a couple more fights to get ready, then it was I may never fight again, lastly I need the money.

Oh and he also said he fought with a broken back against Etienne.

There is no way Lewis will hang around, if this fight's going to happen, it will take place this summer.

I'd guess that was part of the original contract.

Even though he's 37 and been inactive for a year, I can't see Lewis losing.

I don't expect Tyson to make it competitive at all, it's almost like throwing a wolf to the lions.

I realise it's his choice at the end of the day and money is the motivation.

I just really fear for Tyson, I'm not sure why. I guess I don't want to see the stereotypical tragic story of a boxer.

Unfortunately that's what looks like happening.

Archive Home