Mike Tyson, the legendary former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, recently shocked the audience of his podcast, Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson, by calling a journalist “a pervert.” The incident was seemingly triggered by the journalist’s inappropriate question about the booty of professional femme fatale fighter, Amanda Serrano.
Serrano, a seven-division world champion boxer, is a behemoth in the ring. Known for her power punches and fearless attitude, she is a huge part of the reason women’s boxing is gaining significant admiration worldwide. Like many women in sports, her prowess and accomplishments should be the interest of discussion.
However, one journalist at Tyson’s podcast chose to steer the conversation inappropriately, asking Serrano a question about her physical appearance rather than her boxing skills. The question seemed to objectify the female boxer, which didn’t sit well with Tyson.
Mike Tyson, notorious for his direct and sometimes confrontational approach, did not hesitate to voice his disapproval. He shut down the journalist mid-question, extending a vehement defense of Serrano by labeling the journalist “a pervert.”
This incident comes amidst an ongoing debate about the respectful representation of female athletes in media. Too often, their physical appearances are highlighted over their athletic abilities, perpetuating stereotypes and depraving them of the respect they merit. Tyson’s outburst, though perhaps unconventional in tone, is a powerful statement against such practices. His reaction is a testament to the growing intolerance towards disrespecting women athletes.
Many online users have praised Tyson’s action. Some referred to it as a welcome move, calling for the media to give more importance, recognition, and respect to the talent and hard work that female athletes put into their matches, rather than focusing on their physical attributes.
Amanda Serrano, herself, responded to the incident via an Instagram post. While thanking Tyson for his support, she emphasized the need for the media to shift its focus on the abilities and performance of female athletes, rather than objectifying their bodies.
In our continued quest for gender equality, this incident serves as a significant reminder that even as we celebrate female empowerment, there is a long way to go, especially in the world of sports journalism.
Feminist groups around the world have taken this incident as fuel to their movement to ensure fair representation for female athletes in the media. They have been pushing for media to be educated about equality and to understand the importance of focusing on athletic skills, not physical appearance, when covering women’s sports. They see this as a step toward creating a more balanced and respectful sports journalism domain.
Truly, Tyson’s action has stirred a conversation that, joining other recent athlete-led movements, might contribute to bringing about a significant shift in sports culture in the coming years.
While most know Tyson for his ferociousness inside the ring, this incident has shown us a new side of him—a side that stands up against sexist remarks and respects the dignity of women athletes—an important lesson for all in the world of sports journalism.
