Prominent promoter Bob Arum has made some controversial remarks about heavyweight boxers Mike Tyson and Tyson Fury. In an interview with talkSPORT, Arum asserted that Mike Tyson, who was named after the legendary boxer of the same name, would not be able to compete with Tyson Fury if both were at their peak.

Arum stated, “He (Fury) is named after the famous heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson. You know, fans love those fantasy matchups. If both fighters were at their peak, Tyson Fury against Mike Tyson, what would the result be? Well, there would be no contest. Tyson Fury would beat Mike; he’s far superior. What would Mike Tyson do, jump up to knock out Fury?”

Arum went on to explain the differences between modern-day heavyweights and those of the past. “Today’s heavyweights are taller and more agile, which is something that didn’t exist before. Heavyweights like Mike Tyson wouldn’t be able to compete. I’ve always felt that if Mike Tyson stepped into the ring with George Foreman (6’3″), who is 11 cm taller, Tyson would also be knocked out.”

According to Arum, the height difference and agility of modern heavyweights give them a significant advantage. Fury, with his superior height and nimble movement, would be too formidable an opponent for Mike Tyson.

These comments have sparked a lot of reactions from fans and experts alike, igniting a debate about the differences between heavyweight boxing generations and how factors like height and speed could influence the outcome of a match.