**Mike Tyson: The Fighter Who Refuses to Let His Son Follow in His Footsteps**

From showing his son some tough love to a lack of a rough childhood, Mike Tyson recently revealed to Joe Rogan that his son would never become a pro boxer.

Iron Mike Tyson, one of the toughest men on the planet and one of the best heavyweight boxers of all time, would seem the ideal figure to encourage his children to follow in his footsteps. However, Tyson’s outlook for his children is quite the opposite.

### Mike Tyson’s Family and Background

Mike Tyson, now 57, has fathered six children with three different women. Tragically, one of his children passed away at the age of four. His children, two sons and four daughters, have generally chosen paths far removed from the pugilistic arena.

His oldest son, Amir, holds a degree in broadcasting and runs a clothing brand, while his younger son, Miguel, is a musician involved in charity work. Unlike their father, who endured a tumultuous and violent upbringing, Tyson’s children have lived lives of relative luxury and stability.

### Tyson’s Rough Childhood

Tyson’s early life was marked by hardship. His father abandoned the family when Tyson was only two years old, and his mother passed away when he was sixteen.

This severe trauma left an indelible mark on Tyson, propelling him towards the man he would become—a fierce, relentless fighter.

By the age of thirteen, Tyson had been arrested 38 times, and his burgeoning boxing talent was initially a means of self-defense in a hostile environment. In stark contrast, his children have enjoyed the privileges of private education and supportive family structures.

### The Joe Rogan Podcast Revelation

When Miguel expressed interest in pursuing a career in boxing, Tyson was decidedly against it. Speaking to Joe Rogan on his podcast, Tyson shared his concerns.

While he appreciates that Miguel trains in boxing, Tyson believes that a professional career in the sport is a horrible idea for his son. He went so far as to say Miguel doesn’t stand a chance in the ring.

Tyson’s rationale stems from his belief that boxing is a sport for those with nothing to lose, a mindset his children, having been raised in comfort, do not possess.

### The Rigors of Boxing

Boxing, as Tyson explains, is not just a sport but a grueling path that demands extreme dedication and pain. The life-or-death stakes that characterized Tyson’s own journey into boxing are experiences he does not wish upon his children.

“Boxing is for people that have nothing; it requires too much pain and dedication,” Tyson asserted on the podcast. He further emphasized that his children, who have experienced the benefits of private education and international travel, are ill-equipped for the brutal realities of professional boxing.

### A Different Perspective on Legacy

Unlike many sports where the children of legends follow in their parents’ footsteps, such as Tiger Woods’ son Charlie in golf or Kobe Bryant’s daughter Gianna in basketball, combat sports like boxing present unique risks.

The physical toll of boxing can be devastating, with fighters facing severe injuries, long-term health issues, and, in some tragic cases, death. Tyson himself, despite his ferocious reputation, has thus far avoided significant medical complications from his career.

However, the specter of such outcomes looms large, reinforced by examples like Muhammad Ali, who battled Parkinson’s disease later in life.

### A Reflection on Fatherhood

Tyson’s apprehension is also rooted in his reflections on fatherhood. He has expressed regret over missing significant time with his children due to his boxing career and now seeks to support them in safer, more stable pursuits.

The thought of his son enduring the same hardships he did is unbearable. Tyson told Rogan, “Man, you don’t have to fight an animal like me,” highlighting his protective instincts.

### The Psychological Edge

Adding another layer to Tyson’s storied past is the role of hypnotherapy. Under the tutelage of his legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, Tyson underwent hypnosis to cultivate a ruthless, unrelenting mindset. D’Amato’s psychological strategies aimed to erase doubt and foster an unwavering focus on victory.

While these techniques undeniably contributed to Tyson’s success, they also instilled a volatile, uncontrollable aggression that led to notorious incidents, such as biting off Evander Holyfield’s ear during a bout.

### Conclusion: A Father’s Determination

Despite the ferocity and determination that defined his career, Tyson now channels his energy towards ensuring his children do not walk the same perilous path.

His experiences, both in and out of the ring, have shaped his conviction that boxing is not a suitable pursuit for his son Miguel. Tyson is content to provide training and share his love for the sport in a controlled environment, but he draws a firm line at professional competition.

From being hypnotized to become a ruthless fighter to now giving his son lessons and guidance, Mike Tyson has revealed to Joe Rogan why his son will never become a pro boxer.

Tyson’s journey from a troubled youth to a boxing legend underscores the profound sacrifices and immense challenges inherent in the sport. As a father, he is determined to shield his children from the same hardships, hoping they can find fulfillment in less violent and more stable endeavors.