Most professional fighters are way beyond their peak at 35 years of age. Mike is 38.
Most ring experts consider 30 to be a prime age for professional fighters as they are completely experienced, physically and mentally mature at that age.
Most adult males reflexes start to fade after they reach 35. Most fighters who rely on speed are washed up by that age.
Mike Tyson was an explosive fighter for about 5 years. He was on his way out of the game BEFORE Buster Douglas knocked him out.
If you want to watch a washed up fighter, Evander Holyfield will fight on tonight on Pay Per View at the age of 42 against Larry "the Legend" Donald.
I loved to watch Holyfield fight in his prime, but I cringe to watch him now. He's so slow, he can't get out of his own way. I admire his guts, and he might win tonight but I hate to see the old guys getting their brains beat out.
George Foreman was the exception to this rule because of his tremendous ability to take a punch (he's huge) and his earth-shattering power (highest KO percentage in heavyweight history). No one could really hurt him, and usually ol George would get one down the pike, and that's all it took.
Finesse fighters like Ali and Holyfield are washed up in their mid 30s. Tyson probably could mount a comeback but he just doesn't have the drive to do it.
When he arrived in the ring against Lennox Lewis at 235 lbs, I knew he would be KO'D.
Requiem for a heavyweight.
Brian
