Mike Tyson’s former trainer, Jeff Fenech, has shared his frustration over the boxing legend’s decision to get a face tattoo just three days before his fight against Clifford Etienne in 2002.
Fenech revealed that Tyson initially didn’t want to fight after getting the “Maori-style” tattoo, leaving Fenech so upset that he flew home before the bout.
Despite Tyson’s unexpected move, the fight went ahead with Freddie Roach replacing Fenech in the corner. Tyson knocked out Etienne in just one minute, a win that came as a surprise to many, including Fenech, who wasn’t present for the victory.
Fenech reflected on the incident, stating that Tyson’s decision to get the tattoo was a signal to him that the boxer wasn’t in the right mindset.
Although he missed out on being part of the winning moment, Fenech said he had no regrets about leaving Tyson’s camp, feeling the decision was unprofessional.
As Tyson prepares for his upcoming fight against Jake Paul on November 15, Fenech remains critical of the choices Tyson made during his prime.
The Jake Paul fight will mark Tyson’s return to the ring after 19 years, with the 58-year-old entering as the underdog against the much younger Paul.
